Chelsea stamp their authority on a rampant Aston Villa and celebrate their progress to the FA Cup semi-finals

On Wednesday evening, the return leg of the FA Cup, the oldest club competition in England, was played. Chelsea picked themselves up after two league setbacks and put in a very good performance to qualify for the eighth round.

In the first match between the two sides, which took place at the end of January, there was no goal. At Villa Park, however, the fans saw a very different game.

In the eleventh minute, midfielder Conor Gallagher scored his first goal of the season after a pass from Noni Madueke. The visitors could not have imagined a better start to the match.

Ten minutes later, Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino could rejoice for the second time. A great centre from the right by Mal Gusta was brilliantly capitalised on by the returning Nicolas Jackson to increase his side’s lead.

Chelsea took Villans completely by surprise coming into the game and they made unnecessary mistakes. However, the West London team failed to convert their next chances and went into the box with a 0:2 scoreline.

In the 54th minute, Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez scored a wonderful goal from a direct kick, giving his national teammate Martínez absolutely no chance. He did not even have to regret the subsequent yellow card for taking off his jersey.

In stoppage time of the second half, French winger Mussa Diaby corrected the score. Djordje Petrovic will therefore have to wait for his third clean sheet in the current FA Cup campaign.

Chelsea take on Leeds in the semi-finals

Chelsea put in one of their best performances under coach Pochettino and can deservedly celebrate their progression to the FA Cup eighth-finals. They will welcome second-tier Leeds to Stamford Bridge at the end of February.

Source: FA Cup