UEFA Champions League Quarter-Final, Second Leg
Hertha Berlin 0–2 Chelsea (Agg: 0–2)
Olympiastadion Berlin – 16 April 2053
Reigning European champions Chelsea secured their place in the Champions League semi-finals with a composed and clinical 2–0 away win over Hertha Berlin after a tense first leg had ended goalless.
Calin Dimario’s side needed extra time to break Hertha’s resistance, but when the moment came, they struck with the precision of a champion. With 101 minutes on the clock, Johnny Jenkins coolly slotted into the bottom corner from close range to finally beat Jesper Holm in the Hertha goal. Thirteen minutes later, centre-back Christian Colombo put the tie to bed with a fierce strike following a corner routine, sending the travelling Blues support into raptures.
Tactical Patience Pays Off
Hertha had frustrated Chelsea for over 180 minutes of football, with both sides barely separated in xG (1.11–1.02). The hosts played with grit and structure, but a lack of cutting edge—only two of their nine shots hit the target—ultimately cost them.
Chelsea, meanwhile, grew into the game, particularly in extra time when their midfield trio began to dictate tempo and exploit Hertha’s tiring legs. Wing-back Rogério José was instrumental again, claiming Player of the Match with an outstanding 9.1 rating and 14 progressive passes.
Standout Performers
- Johnny Jenkins – Cometh the hour, cometh the finisher. His movement created the moment of clarity Chelsea had waited for.
- Christian Colombo – Rock solid defensively and capped a top performance with a vital goal.
- Rogério José – Dominated the right flank. His overlapping runs and delivery caused consistent problems.
Hertha’s Hopes Fade
Hertha’s best moment came in the first half when they edged possession and saw a dangerous spell midway through the game. However, they failed to carve out any clear chances. Injuries and fatigue began to mount, most notably with Terje Øverås forced off after a tough challenge from Pelé in the 75th minute.
Their defensive effort deserved respect, but Chelsea’s class eventually shone through.
What’s Next?
Chelsea will now face Arsenal in the semi-finals—a London derby of the highest stakes. The Gunners knocked out Bayern Munich and will be eyeing revenge for their 2042 final loss to the Blues. It’s a heavyweight clash that promises fireworks.
Meanwhile, the other semi-final will see Juventus take on Borussia Dortmund after both secured narrow aggregate wins.
Match Stats:
- Shots: Hertha 9 – 5 Chelsea
- xG: Hertha 1.02 – 1.11 Chelsea
- Possession: Hertha 46% – 54% Chelsea
- Passes Completed: Hertha 584 – 477 Chelsea
- Fouls: Hertha 23 – 16 Chelsea
With Hertha Berlin dispatched, Chelsea march on. Still unbeaten in Europe this season, they remain the team to beat.