Big night for Chelsea and Potter
CHELSEA will host Dortmund in the second leg of the Uefa Champions League tonight, as Graham Potter looks to redeem his career at Chelsea and their UCL tie following a 1-0 defeat in the first leg.
The 21-year-old German forward Karim Adeyemi pierced through Chelsea’s defence with his pace and skill to find the only goal of the match.
Chelsea have been stuck in the mud since Graham Potter’s era began. But last weekend the Blues registered their first victory since January 15 when they beat Leeds United.
The hosts have played 12 matches in 2023 and they won only two of them. In the remaining 10 games they lost six and drew four. On the other hand, Dortmund have 11 wins in 11 matches in 2023.
Speaking in the pre-match press conference, Graham Potter addressed the fact that if Chelsea lose the tie, 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.
“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,” Potter 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,” Potter continued.
For Chelsea. Joao Felix, Kai Havertz and Raheem Sterling will play a pivotal role in attack, while for Dortmund, Jude Bellingham, Adeyemi and Marco Reus will threaten Chelsea’s hope for a turnaround.