Armchair watchers are always on edge when two European heavyweights face each other. During Chelsea’s visit to Real Madrid, all eyes were focused on how Reece James would handle Vinicius Jr.
Real Madrid took a step towards reaching the Champions League semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 win. They will aim to seal the deal at Stamford Bridge and secure their place in the next round.
The hosts took the lead through none other than Karim Benzema, and substitute Marco Asensio added a second goal to double their lead.
The situation got worse for the Blues when Ben Chilwell received a red card on the hour mark, with the goals coming before and after the sending-off.
Fans have been sharing footage of the battle between Vinicius Jr and Reece James on social media, with some claiming that Madrid’s winger disrespected James.
Arguably the best right back in the world had a forgettable night.
Former Manchester United defender chipped in with his opinion on the pair’s display in Europe’s top tier club competition.
Of all defenders, Ferdinand knows what it takes to contest against the world’s brightest forwards.
“Reece James would never had a harder game than he did today. He gave him a really, really hard game today,”Ferdinand claimed on BT Sport.
“Vinicius Jr didn’t show him any respect. He was magnificent. He’ll be doing the same at Stamford Bridge.”
The return leg is set to light Europe on fire as the 20/21 champions look to claw back a two-goal deficit in front of a home crowd.
You can watch the damning YouTube compilation,created by LUNDUNi7, below.
Of all the competitors James has faced in his playing career, the lightning Real Madrid forward was among James’ toughest opponents.
In March, the English international was asked about the toughest opponent he has faced.
He replied: “Wooooo! Vini, Vini is one.”
With a massive grin on his face, James had named the Brazilian ace as the toughest opponent he has faced; however, after last night’s disasterclass, that smile is likely to have disappeared.
The Chelsea full-back had also expressed his admiration for the Brazilian on Twitter in the past.
Before last night’s fiasco, Chelsea had emerged victorious in both games that featured James against their Spanish counterparts.
However, the events of last night were a different story as Carlo Ancelotti’s team outclassed Frank Lampard’s squad.
The West Londoner’s interim manager will be hoping for a change of fortunes next Tuesday.
From bad to worse went Chelsea’s campaign with their defeat in the Spanish capital, though they did show shadows of promise on the night.
A lack of cutting edge was the difference as Chelsea missed two big chances, leaving themselves with a mountainous task when the two face each other again.