Guwahati: The second leg of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) between Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund will take place on March 8 at Stamford Bridge, and Graham Potter will be hoping to atone for his big expenditure during the January transfer window. Dortmund defeated Chelsea 1-0 in the first leg.
Karim Adeyemi, a 21-year-old forward for Dortmund, beat Chelsea’s defence with his speed and cunning to score the game’s lone goal. Chelsea made a valiant effort, but it was in vain as Dortmund’s defence stood strong to preserve their one-goal advantage.
Chelsea had high hopes for Potter since his hiring and made significant additions to the roster during the recently ended transfer window. Chelsea’s high expenditures, nevertheless, have yet to pay off on the field. Chelsea was able to defeat Leeds United and earn their first win since the new year. Of the twelve games they’ve played so far this year, they’ve only been successful in winning two.
Chelsea has lost six and drawn four of the final 10 games. Dortmund, on the other hand, has won 11 of its first 11 games to remain unbeaten in 2023.
Chelsea boss Graham Potter addressed the pre-match press conference where he said that losing the tie could mean that the season will be over for him. “I agree it’s a big game, an exciting game, a chance to go through to the last eight of the Champions League,” he said.
“It’ll be a special night. Our thoughts are on being positive and trying to win the game. It’s a good challenge for us, a big challenge for us. We’re excited for it and looking forward to it,” the Chelsea boss said.
Potter further said that Chelsea will be looking forward to host Dortmund for the tie. He said, “The position we’re in, you should always welcome the pressure because it means you’re in a fantastic situation, which is to compete in the last eight of the Champions League. It was a special occasion in Dortmund and I’m sure it will be the same at Stamford Bridge tomorrow. We’re looking forward to playing the game and competing to go through.”
While Dortmund has players like Jude Bellingham, Karim Adeyemi, and Marco Reus with one foot in the competition’s next round, big name players like Joao Felix, Kai Havertz, and Raheem Sterling might decide the game for Chelsea.