Even Karim Benzema recognized Reece James’ impressive performance at the Bernabéu as the Real Madrid striker went out to swap shirts with the Chelsea defender after their thrilling Champions League clash on Tuesday evening.
Thomas Tuchel wrote off Chelsea’s hopes of reaching the Champions League semi-final after their 3-1 loss in the first quarter-final match at Stamford Bridge last week.
Mason Mount, Antonio Rudiger, and Timo Werner gave Chelsea the three-goal advantage they needed with 15 minutes remaining at the Bernabeu.
However, a brilliant pass from Luka Modrić set up Rodrygo’s goal to force extra time, before Karim Benzema’s header dumped the Champions League holders out of the competition.
James, meanwhile, received widespread praise for his performance at the Bernabeu as he kept both Vinicius Jr. and Ferland Mendy quiet on Madrid’s left flank.
And Benzema was impressed with James’ display, as he made a for James before the Chelsea defender disappeared down the tunnel.
