Chelsea Stun Barca 3-0: Teen Sensation Estevao Steals Show in Thrilling Champions League Clash
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In a breathtaking display, Chelsea crushed 10-man Barcelona 3-0 in a Champions League showdown that showcased the Londoners' resurgence. The victory has catapulted Chelsea into provisional top-eight automatic qualifying spots, leaving Barcelona facing a daunting task to avoid a playoff spot. Chelsea's imperious performance was marked by a series of impressive moments, including an early own goal and a red card for Barcelona's captain Ronald Araujo at the end of the first half. Estevao, an 18-year-old starlet, scored a stunning second goal, driving past two defenders before unleashing a powerful shot into the roof of the net. Liam Delap sealed the win with a third goal in the 73rd minute. Chelsea's dominance was evident throughout the match, with the team passing crisply and probing down both flanks. In contrast, Barcelona struggled to find their rhythm, barely holding the ball for three passes and failing to build any sustained pressure. Their sole chance of the night fell to Ferran Torres, who blazing wide with the goal gaping. Barcelona's defense looked ragged, and they were saved only by the officials, who ruled out two Chelsea goals for handball and offside. Chelsea's pressure eventually paid off when Jules Kounde poked the ball into his own net after 27 minutes. The red card for Araujo further weakened Barcelona's chances. Chelsea's victory has set them up well for their remaining fixtures against Pafos, Atalanta, and Napoli. Meanwhile, Barcelona faces a tough road ahead, needing to gain plenty of points from their remaining matches against Eintracht Frankfurt, Slavia Prague, and FC Copenhagen to avoid a playoff spot.