"There was nothing whatsoever in this regard from the Catalans to get excited about on the night. The lacklustre showing was due in part to Chelsea's energy, intensity, physicality and tempo throughout; however, that shouldn't even be a talking point from Barca's point of view. Players were routinely bullied off the ball, consistently threw up their arms when not getting every decision, and were more often than not second-best to the ball."
"Let's be honest... Chelsea do actually have a half-decent team. The likes of Estevao, Enzo Fernandes and Moises Caicedo et al would grace any team, and they're second in the Premier League for a reason. Marc Cucurella also enjoyed a good night against his former employers, teeing up the opening goal - even though he looked offside - and walked off with the MVP award."
"Physicality is all well and good too, but there were plenty of occasions when Chelsea's dirty tricks left a sour taste in the mouth. Trevoh Chalobah's studs-up challenge on Robert Lewandowski and his blatant push on Fermin Lopez which could've seen Barca awarded a penalty, were two of at least half a dozen instances in the first half alone that the officials appear"
Historic Barcelona–Chelsea rivalry brought memories of Iniesta 2009, Messi's 2005 introduction and Ronaldinho's spectacular effort. The 2025 match proved very different and became a nightmare for Barcelona as Chelsea's energy, intensity, physicality and tempo dominated. Barcelona players were routinely bullied off the ball, frequently protested decisions and were often second-best, producing one of Hansi Flick's worst performances. Chelsea fielded quality performers like Estevao, Enzo Fernandes and Moises Caicedo, while Marc Cucurella created the opening goal and won MVP despite appearing offside. Aggressive incidents such as Trevoh Chalobah's studs-up challenge on Lewandowski and a push on Fermin Lopez raised concerns about officiating.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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