[UCL 27.3] APOEL FC v Real Madrid CF & SL Benfica v Chelsea FC
APOEL FC v Real Madrid CF
"We've done something exceptional, something that can never happen again," said APOEL president Phivos Erotokritou of a season in which his side have continued to astound Europe. Tuesday's encounter at the GSP Stadium is the biggest match in the club's history, but those expecting a Spanish stroll should note that APOEL have won five of their seven home games in this season's competition.
Madrid have a near-perfect record in this year's competition, winning seven of their eight games so far, the only blemish a 1-1 draw at PFC CSKA Moskva in the round of 16 first leg. Coach José Mourinho boasts a 100% record in his four UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, while in-form striker Cristiano Ronaldo has registered five goals in his last four European matches.
SL Benfica v Chelsea FC
The Eagles will look to swoop into the semi-finals for the first time in 22 years. Jorge Jesus's charges are unbeaten in ten European home outings dating back to December 2010, and showed great character to turn around a round of 16 first–leg deficit against FC Zenit St Petersburg.
Despite a trying season on the domestic front, Chelsea have kept their powder dry in the UEFA Champions League where they are England's last representatives. The Blues seemed down and out after a 3-1 loss at SSC Napoli, but following the dismissal of Portuguese coach André-Villas Boas, they reversed that scoreline under Roberto Di Matteo at Stamford Bridge, prevailing 4-1 on the night after extra time.
