Azpilicueta frustrated by latest defensive lapse from Chelsea

Chelsea are back on the winning track with a decent performance against Malmö FF on Thursday, but the 2-1 win was far from perfect. Goals from Ross Barkley and Olivier Giroud should’ve been added to before the final whistle, but instead the Blues conceded a late consolation out of nowhere, which means that Malmö are still in the tie.

While Sarri was happy enough with the win and the performance — identifying plenty of things to improve in passing and possession but praising the team’s confidence — Captain Azpilicueta’s post-match sentiments were far more frustrated, especially with the team’s defending and concentration.

“We are in the knockout stage and it’s important to start well. We had chances to have a more comfortable result, but they scored and there is still a lot to play for next week. In the second half we had whole control of the game and had a lot of chances. It’s frustrating to concede a goal and not to have a better result. It’s still all to play for.”

The second leg will take place same time next week at home, but before then, Chelsea have a chance to advance to the FA Cup quarterfinal by beating Manchester United at the Bridge on Monday. The league trophy is out of reach (the top four isn’t a trophy, technically), but others are still well within sight. Winning as many of those as possible must be part of Chelsea’s mentality.

“This tournament is very important, we are fighting for trophies and to be in the top four. We are in the EFL Cup final [against City] next week, every trophy is important.”

-César Azpilicueta; source: BT Sport via FourFourTwo

So say we all.