Pulisic bags huge away goal for Chelsea in UCL semi vs. Madrid

Chelsea earned an advantageous 1-1 draw in Tuesday’s Champions League semifinal first leg against Real Madrid, securing a vital away goal that improves their chances of reaching the final for the first time since 2012.

Christian Pulisic gave the Blues the lead with a composed finish in the first half, but Karim Benzema replied at the half-hour mark with a wonderful hit from close range.

Thomas Tuchel’s side hosts the second leg at Stamford Bridge on May 5.

Chelsea took the lead in the 14th minute when Pulisic rounded Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and fired a shot through traffic. With the goal, the 22-year-old became the first American player to score in a Champions League semifinal.

The visitors had enough chances to double the advantage, with N’Golo Kante often leading the charge in midfield. But Madrid wrested control. Shortly after lashing a shot off the post, Benzema showed great control in the penalty area, heading the ball into his path to execute a perfect volley. Chelsea netminder Edouard Mendy could only watch in awe.

It was Benzema’s 71st goal in the Champions League, moving him into a tie for fourth place all time with Madrid legend Raul.

Madrid upped the tempo in the second half with a high press in Chelsea’s end. Noticing the momentum swing, Tuchel opted for a rare triple change to regain a foothold, and Hakim Ziyech’s impact was immediate. Los Blancos, however, seemed all too happy to sit back and absorb the pressure.

Eden Hazard had a brief cameo against former side Chelsea as he returned from his latest muscle injury. But his appearance lacked the oomph that much of the pregame coverage had promised. The Belgian made just 10 passes and attempted one dribble in 24 minutes of play.