Definitely, the knockout stages of the Champions League are placed under the sign of the spectacle. After the thunderous Parisian success in Barcelona (1-4), the Germans from Bayern Munich reminded the continent that they were not the title holders for nothing thanks to their card in Italy against Lazio of Rome ( 1-4). In the other confrontation, Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea performed well by winning against Atlético de Madrid. A success acquired thanks to Olivier Giroud.
Giroud stunning
The first confrontation of the evening was close between the Spaniards of Atlético de Madrid and the English of Chelsea. For his return to the Champions League, Thomas Tuchel can thank his French striker Olivier Giroud, author of the only goal of the match in the 68th minute. A goal that took a long time to be validated by the referees after consulting the VAR. If Giroud’s technical gesture is splendid (an acrobatic return), he almost was refused for a long time for offside. Even if the French international plays little, he still proved how decisive he can be. A result that allows the English to half-open the door to the quarter-finals. Even if the Madrilenians have not said their last word for the return match in London.
Too strong, holding it
The very recent club world champion is not satisfied with success. For its return in 2021 on the European scene, Bayern responded to the signal sent eight days ago by PSG, its ultimate rival in the final of the previous edition. From the first period, the Munichers took shelter on the ground of Lazio in Rome. From the 9th minute, Robert Lewandowski opened the scoring followed a few moments later by his teammates Jamal Musiala (24th) and Leroy Sané (42nd). In demonstration, the Germans even lead 4-0 after a goal against his camp by Francesco Acerbi. Joaquin Correa’s score reduction doesn’t change much. Bayern have already almost validated their ticket for the quarter-finals. And to think that the Germans had several injured and two players who tested positive for Covid-19.
Article original de: www.leparisien.fr
