Drogba double eliminates Atletico

By Zain Alvi | 3rd November 2009

Drogba double eliminates Atletico | read this item

Chelsea’s unstoppable striker Didier Drogba struck twice in the span of six minutes to silence over 50,000 Atletico Madrid fans at the Vicente Calderon stadium. Atletico’s Argentine sensation Sergio Aguero netted either side of Drogba’s brace, but that was not enough to prevent the Rojiblancos from UEFA Champions League elimination.

Aguero’s first strike had brought the capacity crowd to its feet as new manager Quique Sanchez Flores celebrated in relief. Despite only arriving to this fourth group stage game with a single point, crisis-ridden Atletico could have tightened the group up had they managed to hold on to their lead.

However, as many pundits had expected, Didier Drogba’s much awaited return to Europe – following a three-game suspension last season – severely pushed the hosts back. After conceding an equalizer eight minutes from the full time whistle, Flores’ men stumbled to concede a second goal with merely two minutes left to play. The shocked crowd dejectedly began the painful journey towards the exit as Aguero managed to salvage some pride with a fighting equalizer in the final moments.

In fact, Aguero’s goal could have actually salvaged a bit more than just the pride. Remember, not all is lost for Atletico just yet. They are still in the running for a spot in the Europa League Round of 32 with APOEL Nicosia as the direct competitor. Thanks to the late equalizer against Chelsea, the La Liga outfit has a point more than its counterpart from Cyprus.

As for Chelsea, they will fancy their chances to win the group given their outstanding all-round form. Rest assured, though, a very impressive F.C. Porto side – which has also qualified for the Round of 16 along with the Blues – will do all in its power to leapfrog Carlo Ancelotti’s men to end top of Group D.