Real Madrid will host Chelsea in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals 2022-23 on April 13, 2023, at 12:30 AM IST. Santiago Bernabeu Stadium will host the Real Madrid vs Chelsea.

Real Madrid will host Chelsea in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals 2022-23 on April 13, 2023, at 12:30 AM IST. Santiago Bernabeu Stadium will host the Real Madrid vs Chelsea. Real Madrid topped Group F as they beat Liverpool in the round of 16. Chelsea defeated AC Milan twice on their way to finishing first in Group E before knocking Borussia Dortmund out of the UEFA Champions League. Despite being excellent teams, both have headed in the opposite direction. Real Madrid gained momentum after their victory at Camp Nou. Meanwhile, Chelsea has struggled all season long. However, in the upcoming match, Joao Felix can threaten Real Madrid in his natural position on the left wing. Real Madrid also has to steer clear of Kroos and Modric. Here's everything you need to know about Real Madrid vs Chelsea, the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Real Madrid vs Chelsea: Match Details Match: Real Madrid vs Chelsea, 1st leg of quarterfinals of UEFA Champions League 2023 Date: Thursday, April 13 Time: 12:30 AM IST Venue: Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain Real Madrid vs Chelsea: Predicted Playing XI Real Madrid: Courtois, Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Camavinga, Kroos, Modric, Valverde, Rodrygo, Vinicius, Benzema Chelsea: Kepa, James, Fofana, Koulibaly, Chilwell, Enzo, Kante, Kovacic, Sterling, Felix, Havertz Real Madrid vs Chelsea: Live Streaming Football freaks in India can watch the Real Madrid vs Chelsea match on the Sony LIV app. Sony Sports Network will also live telecast the game on their TV channels. In the United Kingdom, BT Sport 1 and BT Sport Ultimate will live telecast the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals on TV. BT Sport App will also live stream the matches. Furthermore, fans in the United States can watch the quarterfinal matches live on Univision, TUDN and Paramount+. ALSO READ | UEFA Champions League Live: How to watch UCL 2022-23 quarterfinal matches live in India; Check full schedule

Read Madrid vs Chelsea Live: Check how to watch UEFA Champions League quarterfinals & predicted playing XI

Real Madrid saw off a stirring Chelsea fightback to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals following a 3-2 defeat after extra time in a scintillating second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday to go through 5-4 on aggregate.

Chelsea had looked on course to complete an astonishing comeback after taking a 3-0 lead in their quarter-final second leg with goals from Mason Mount, Antonio Rudiger and an excellent individual effort from Timo Werner.

Yet the hosts came roaring back, with Rodrygo finishing from a superb pass by Luka Modric to level the tie 4-4 on aggregate and force extra time when Karim Benzema headed home to decide a remarkable encounter.

Real Madrid will now face either Manchester City or local rivals Atletico Madrid in the last four, with the English side taking a 1-0 lead into their quarter-final second leg in Spain on Wednesday.

It was a Champions League night for the ages at a packed stadium as a brilliant Chelsea came within 10 minutes of completing a rescue act that their manager Thomas Tuchel had said they were unlikely to accomplish.

His team took the game to Real Madrid as they looked to turn around a two-goal deficit from the first leg and it took only 15 minutes for Mount to open the scoring from a through ball behind the defence.

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Chelsea were even more aggressive after the break and scored their second in the 51st minute when Rudiger guided home a header from a Werner corner to level the tie 3-3 on aggregate.

Four minutes later, Werner found Marcos Alonso inside the area and he thrashed his finish into the top corner only to see his effort chalked off by the video assistant referee who had spotted a handball from the Spanish left back.

With the visitors on top, however, it was only a matter of time until they scored their third which arrived in the 75th minute from a brilliant piece of individual skill from Werner, who left two opponents on the ground before dispatching a precise shot past Courtois and inside the far post.

In the very next move, Kai Havertz was denied by former Chelsea keeper Courtois, who made a magnificent save to stop his close-range header. Yet just when Real looked completely out of the game, Modric worked his magic, finding substitute Rodrygo at the far post with a delightful pass with the outside of his boot that the Brazilian volleyed past Edouard Mendy in the 80th to take the game to extra time.

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That was the cue for Vinicius Jr and Benzema to show up and rescue Real Madrid from what would have been one of the biggest shocks they had ever suffered at home.

Vinicius worked his way inside from the left corner, and sent a lovely cross onto Benzema`s head, and the Frenchman bulleted it past Mendy as the ecstatic home fans exploded with joy.

"It was another incredible night, what a sweet tasting loss," Modric told Movistar Plus.

"We didn`t give up until the end. Despite going 0-3, I don`t think we played a bad game. Another night of suffering, but the important thing is that we have qualified."

Real Madrid saw off a stirring Chelsea fightback to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals following a 3-2 defeat after extra time in a scintillating second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday to go through 5-4 on aggregate.

Real Madrid saw off a stirring Chelsea fightback to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals following a 3-2 defeat after extra time in a scintillating second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday to go through 5-4 on aggregate. Chelsea had looked on course to complete an astonishing comeback after taking a 3-0 lead in their quarter-final second leg with goals from Mason Mount, Antonio Rudiger and an excellent individual effort from Timo Werner. Yet the hosts came roaring back, with Rodrygo finishing from a superb pass by Luka Modric to level the tie 4-4 on aggregate and force extra time when Karim Benzema headed home to decide a remarkable encounter. Real Madrid will now face either Manchester City or local rivals Atletico Madrid in the last four, with the English side taking a 1-0 lead into their quarter-final second leg in Spain on Wednesday. It was a Champions League night for the ages at a packed stadium as a brilliant Chelsea came within 10 minutes of completing a rescue act that their manager Thomas Tuchel had said they were unlikely to accomplish. His team took the game to Real Madrid as they looked to turn around a two-goal deficit from the first leg and it took only 15 minutes for Mount to open the scoring from a through ball behind the defence. Also Read: Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca confirms bid to buy Premier League club Chelsea Chelsea were even more aggressive after the break and scored their second in the 51st minute when Rudiger guided home a header from a Werner corner to level the tie 3-3 on aggregate. Four minutes later, Werner found Marcos Alonso inside the area and he thrashed his finish into the top corner only to see his effort chalked off by the video assistant referee who had spotted a handball from the Spanish left back. With the visitors on top, however, it was only a matter of time until they scored their third which arrived in the 75th minute from a brilliant piece of individual skill from Werner, who left two opponents on the ground before dispatching a precise shot past Courtois and inside the far post. In the very next move, Kai Havertz was denied by former Chelsea keeper Courtois, who made a magnificent save to stop his close-range header. Yet just when Real looked completely out of the game, Modric worked his magic, finding substitute Rodrygo at the far post with a delightful pass with the outside of his boot that the Brazilian volleyed past Edouard Mendy in the 80th to take the game to extra time. Also Read: I still have 'four or five years' at the top level, says PSG star Sergio Ramos That was the cue for Vinicius Jr and Benzema to show up and rescue Real Madrid from what would have been one of the biggest shocks they had ever suffered at home. Vinicius worked his way inside from the left corner, and sent a lovely cross onto Benzema`s head, and the Frenchman bulleted it past Mendy as the ecstatic home fans exploded with joy. "It was another incredible night, what a sweet tasting loss," Modric told Movistar Plus. "We didn`t give up until the end. Despite going 0-3, I don`t think we played a bad game. Another night of suffering, but the important thing is that we have qualified."

Real Madrid survive superb Chelsea comeback to reach Champions League semi-finals

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro insisted they won`t fall into the trap of believing their Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea is already wrapped up after they dominated to win 3-1 at Stamford Bridge in the first leg.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel was very critical of his team after last week`s defeat and said it "would be impossible" to recover from the setback - words that did not go unnoticed in Real`s dressing room.

"We won`t fall for that," Casemiro told a news conference on Monday. "We played probably what was the best 90 minutes of our season in London last week and took a major step closer to qualifying for the semi-final but we can’t get overly confident.

"We all heard what Thomas Tuchel said. We don`t buy it. We know that it will be a tough game. They are defending champions and we won’t take this game lightly, I can assure you of that."

Casemiro warned Real`s supporters not to lose their focus and called on them to pack the Santiago Bernabeu stadium and help their team finish what they started in London.

"We’ll need our fans to be there and support us from the beginning," Casemiro said. "We can`t get overconfident and need our fans to create a great atmosphere so we can advance to the semi-finals."

Coach Carlo Ancelotti agreed with Casemiro that they will not fall for Tuchel putting all the pressure on Real Madrid.

"Chelsea will come here to rescue the tie, I have no doubt about it," the Italian told a news conference when asked if Tuchel was playing mind games against his side.

"He can say whatever he wants but I`m sure Chelsea will come here to win, that’s the spirit of football, the spirit of big clubs and great players, to never give up.

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"I`m lucky to have a group of players that know these types of games really well, that anything can happen. They are in a good spirit and happy with the opportunity to reach a Champions League semi-final. But Chelsea are a very strong rival. We have to have a lot of respect and we`re going to have it".

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro insisted they won`t fall into the trap of believing their Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea is already wrapped up after they dominated to win 3-1 at Stamford Bridge in the first leg.

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro insisted they won`t fall into the trap of believing their Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea is already wrapped up after they dominated to win 3-1 at Stamford Bridge in the first leg. Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel was very critical of his team after last week`s defeat and said it "would be impossible" to recover from the setback - words that did not go unnoticed in Real`s dressing room. "We won`t fall for that," Casemiro told a news conference on Monday. "We played probably what was the best 90 minutes of our season in London last week and took a major step closer to qualifying for the semi-final but we can’t get overly confident. "We all heard what Thomas Tuchel said. We don`t buy it. We know that it will be a tough game. They are defending champions and we won’t take this game lightly, I can assure you of that." Casemiro warned Real`s supporters not to lose their focus and called on them to pack the Santiago Bernabeu stadium and help their team finish what they started in London. "We’ll need our fans to be there and support us from the beginning," Casemiro said. "We can`t get overconfident and need our fans to create a great atmosphere so we can advance to the semi-finals." Coach Carlo Ancelotti agreed with Casemiro that they will not fall for Tuchel putting all the pressure on Real Madrid. "Chelsea will come here to rescue the tie, I have no doubt about it," the Italian told a news conference when asked if Tuchel was playing mind games against his side. "He can say whatever he wants but I`m sure Chelsea will come here to win, that’s the spirit of football, the spirit of big clubs and great players, to never give up. Also Read: Inter Milan beat Verona 2-0 to move closer to top as AC Milan, Napoli falter in Serie A title race "I`m lucky to have a group of players that know these types of games really well, that anything can happen. They are in a good spirit and happy with the opportunity to reach a Champions League semi-final. But Chelsea are a very strong rival. We have to have a lot of respect and we`re going to have it".

Real Madrid won't take Chelsea lightly, says Casemiro ahead of Champions League clash

Raphael Varane is set to miss Real Madrid's crunch Champions League second leg against Chelsea on Wednesday after the club confirmed he has sustained an adductor injury.

Varane was taken off at half-time of Madrid's 2-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday and the French defender is now expected to sit out the game at Stamford Bridge.

Real Madrid drew 1-1 with Chelsea in last week's first leg at Valdebebas.

"After the tests carried out today on our player Raphael Varane by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he was diagnosed with an injury to the right adductor muscle," Real Madrid said in a statement on Monday.

Varane's injury is another major blow for Madrid, who are also in the heat of La Liga's title race, with a pivotal match at home to Sevilla coming up on Sunday.&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane's side are two points behind Atletico Madrid, with four games left to play.

Eder Militao and Nacho Fernandez will likely form the central defensive partnership against Chelsea after they excelled while Varane was recently absent due to a positive test for Covid-19.

Sergio Ramos is also nearing a return to fitness following a calf injury, but it would be a surprise if the 35-year-old was thrown back in against Chelsea, after more than a month out.

Raphael Varane is set to miss Real Madrid's crunch Champions League second leg against Chelsea on Wednesday after the club confirmed he has sustained an adductor injury.

Raphael Varane is set to miss Real Madrid's crunch Champions League second leg against Chelsea on Wednesday after the club confirmed he has sustained an adductor injury. Varane was taken off at half-time of Madrid's 2-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday and the French defender is now expected to sit out the game at Stamford Bridge. Real Madrid drew 1-1 with Chelsea in last week's first leg at Valdebebas. "After the tests carried out today on our player Raphael Varane by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he was diagnosed with an injury to the right adductor muscle," Real Madrid said in a statement on Monday. Varane's injury is another major blow for Madrid, who are also in the heat of La Liga's title race, with a pivotal match at home to Sevilla coming up on Sunday. Zinedine Zidane's side are two points behind Atletico Madrid, with four games left to play. Eder Militao and Nacho Fernandez will likely form the central defensive partnership against Chelsea after they excelled while Varane was recently absent due to a positive test for Covid-19. Sergio Ramos is also nearing a return to fitness following a calf injury, but it would be a surprise if the 35-year-old was thrown back in against Chelsea, after more than a month out.

Varane to miss Chelsea return after Real Madrid confirm injury

Chelsea hold the upper hand with an away goal heading into the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid after a tight battle in the Spanish capital ended 1-1 on Tuesday.

Christian Pulisic rewarded a bright start from the visitors with a calm finish on 14 minutes.

But Karim Benzema's brilliant strike brought the 13-time European champions to life just before the half-hour mark.

Here, AFP Sport looks at three talking points from the first leg:

<h2>Madrid show their age</h2>

Madrid's starting XI have a combined 31 Champions League winner's medals, eight of whom made up the core of the side that won the competition three seasons in a row between 2016 and 2018.

However, that experience counted for little against Chelsea's younger and fresher legs.

Pulisic, Timo Werner and Mason Mount stretched Real's back three, while N'Golo Kante and Jorginho did not allow Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to control midfield as they did in the previous round against Liverpool.

Madrid's knowhow in knockout ties could still prove vital with the tie delicately poised heading to Stamford Bridge in eight days' time.

But Chelsea will be confident of reaching just their third ever Champions League final.

<h2>Benzema shows up wasteful Werner</h2>

After scoring just his third goal in 37 games for club and country against West Ham on Saturday, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel kept faith with Werner up front.

But the German international showed the lack of confidence in front of goal that has characterised his first season with the Blues since a £50 million ($69 million) move from RB Leipzig.

Werner passed up a glorious chance to open the scoring in a dominant Chelsea start as he fired into the legs of Thibaut Courtois from point-blank range.

Madrid, on the other hand, were kept in the tie by their number nine on another night of Champions League history for Benzema.

The Frenchman moved level with Real legend Raul on 71 Champions League goals to become the joint fourth highest scorer in the competition's history.

Benzema gave Chelsea a warning shot with a thunderous effort that came back off the post.

His goal was also barely a half-chance as he cushioned the ball on his head before blasting past the helpless Edouard Mendy to prevent Chelsea registering a 17th clean sheet in 22 games under Tuchel.

<h2>Chelsea flex strength in depth</h2>

Both clubs were among the 'dirty dozen' that signed up to form a breakaway European Super League (ESL) last week, but their reactions since have contrasted sharply.

Chelsea's intent to withdraw a week ago started a domino effect as all six English clubs involved pulled out within 48 hours of the plans being released.

Meanwhile, Madrid president Florentino Perez has defiantly insisted the project remains alive, with only Barcelona as an unlikely ally.

Central to Perez's craving for change is that Madrid are no longer the biggest spenders in the transfer market.

Faced with the state-backed Middle Eastern wealth of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, who face off in the other semi-final on Wednesday, or the millions invested by Chelsea's Russian oligarch owner Roman Abramovich, Madrid are struggling to compete.

The £220 million spent by Chelsea last summer showed in the respective strength of both benches.

Tuchel was able to introduce Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz and Reece James with 25 minutes to go to give his side a fresh impetus.

The sale of Eden Hazard to Madrid for an initial 100m euros ($120 million) also helped fund Chelsea's rebuild.

Hazard's time in Madrid, though, has been decimated by injuries and he made barely any impact against his former club as a second-half substitute.

Chelsea hold the upper hand with an away goal heading into the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid after a tight battle in the Spanish capital ended 1-1 on Tuesday.

Chelsea hold the upper hand with an away goal heading into the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid after a tight battle in the Spanish capital ended 1-1 on Tuesday. Christian Pulisic rewarded a bright start from the visitors with a calm finish on 14 minutes. But Karim Benzema's brilliant strike brought the 13-time European champions to life just before the half-hour mark. Here, AFP Sport looks at three talking points from the first leg: Madrid show their age Madrid's starting XI have a combined 31 Champions League winner's medals, eight of whom made up the core of the side that won the competition three seasons in a row between 2016 and 2018. However, that experience counted for little against Chelsea's younger and fresher legs. Pulisic, Timo Werner and Mason Mount stretched Real's back three, while N'Golo Kante and Jorginho did not allow Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to control midfield as they did in the previous round against Liverpool. Madrid's knowhow in knockout ties could still prove vital with the tie delicately poised heading to Stamford Bridge in eight days' time. But Chelsea will be confident of reaching just their third ever Champions League final. Benzema shows up wasteful Werner After scoring just his third goal in 37 games for club and country against West Ham on Saturday, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel kept faith with Werner up front. But the German international showed the lack of confidence in front of goal that has characterised his first season with the Blues since a £50 million ($69 million) move from RB Leipzig. Werner passed up a glorious chance to open the scoring in a dominant Chelsea start as he fired into the legs of Thibaut Courtois from point-blank range. Madrid, on the other hand, were kept in the tie by their number nine on another night of Champions League history for Benzema. The Frenchman moved level with Real legend Raul on 71 Champions League goals to become the joint fourth highest scorer in the competition's history. Benzema gave Chelsea a warning shot with a thunderous effort that came back off the post. His goal was also barely a half-chance as he cushioned the ball on his head before blasting past the helpless Edouard Mendy to prevent Chelsea registering a 17th clean sheet in 22 games under Tuchel. Chelsea flex strength in depth Both clubs were among the 'dirty dozen' that signed up to form a breakaway European Super League (ESL) last week, but their reactions since have contrasted sharply. Chelsea's intent to withdraw a week ago started a domino effect as all six English clubs involved pulled out within 48 hours of the plans being released. Meanwhile, Madrid president Florentino Perez has defiantly insisted the project remains alive, with only Barcelona as an unlikely ally. Central to Perez's craving for change is that Madrid are no longer the biggest spenders in the transfer market. Faced with the state-backed Middle Eastern wealth of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, who face off in the other semi-final on Wednesday, or the millions invested by Chelsea's Russian oligarch owner Roman Abramovich, Madrid are struggling to compete. The £220 million spent by Chelsea last summer showed in the respective strength of both benches. Tuchel was able to introduce Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz and Reece James with 25 minutes to go to give his side a fresh impetus. The sale of Eden Hazard to Madrid for an initial 100m euros ($120 million) also helped fund Chelsea's rebuild. Hazard's time in Madrid, though, has been decimated by injuries and he made barely any impact against his former club as a second-half substitute.

Champions League: Three talking points from Real Madrid 1-1 Chelsea

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his side should have wrapped up their Champions League semi-final first leg with Real Madrid in the first half on Tuesday and rued missed chances in the 1-1 draw that could have put the game beyond their opponents.

US&nbsp;forward Christian Pulisic fired Chelsea in front in the 14th minute in the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, and the visitors created plenty more opportunities in the first half as 13-times winners Real struggled to make any inroads at the other end.

Yet Chelsea's inability to score a second away goal proved costly as Karim Benzema's fine effort levelled things up before the break with his side's only shot on target in the opening period.

"I have a feeling we should have won the first half and we could have perhaps decided this game in the first half an hour when we were playing so strong," Tuchel told the BBC.

"The second half was a tactical game and you could feel we only had two days in between two away games which made it physically and mentally demanding and you could feel it in the decision making.

"We suffered a bit and an extra day would have been nice."

Timo Werner failed to beat Thibaut Courtois from close range early in the game and Tuchel was left frustrated by the German striker's inability to put away clear chances.

"He missed a big one at West Ham United (on Saturday) and now he's missed a big one here, that doesn't help," Tuchel told a news conference. "It doesn't help crying about it or regretting it.

"There are millions of people who have harder things to deal with than chances that you miss... I don't feel we're pointing fingers but of course the strikers want to score.

"This is the highest level and when you have a good half an hour like we did... then yes we wish for more composure and more precision in the decision making and finishing."

Tuchel continued his fine record against Zinedine Zidane's side in Europe's premier club competition - the German is the only manager to face Real as many as five times without ever losing in Champions League history.

Having scored the away goal, Chelsea are in the driving seat to reach a first Champions League final since 2012 ahead of next week's return leg at Stamford Bridge.

"It is just the first half (of the tie), we knew against Real Madrid it would be tough," Chelsea's Cesar Azpilicueta told BT Sport.

"We started with courage, we had to perform at our best level. The semi-final of a Champions League asks you to play your best. We missed that last pass where we could choose the best option.

"But in the overall analysis we performed well. As a unit I think we are all improving and all growing."

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his side should have wrapped up their Champions League semi-final first leg with Real Madrid in the first half on Tuesday and rued missed chances in the 1-1 draw that could have put the game beyond their opponents.

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his side should have wrapped up their Champions League semi-final first leg with Real Madrid in the first half on Tuesday and rued missed chances in the 1-1 draw that could have put the game beyond their opponents. US forward Christian Pulisic fired Chelsea in front in the 14th minute in the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, and the visitors created plenty more opportunities in the first half as 13-times winners Real struggled to make any inroads at the other end. Yet Chelsea's inability to score a second away goal proved costly as Karim Benzema's fine effort levelled things up before the break with his side's only shot on target in the opening period. "I have a feeling we should have won the first half and we could have perhaps decided this game in the first half an hour when we were playing so strong," Tuchel told the BBC. "The second half was a tactical game and you could feel we only had two days in between two away games which made it physically and mentally demanding and you could feel it in the decision making. "We suffered a bit and an extra day would have been nice." Timo Werner failed to beat Thibaut Courtois from close range early in the game and Tuchel was left frustrated by the German striker's inability to put away clear chances. "He missed a big one at West Ham United (on Saturday) and now he's missed a big one here, that doesn't help," Tuchel told a news conference. "It doesn't help crying about it or regretting it. "There are millions of people who have harder things to deal with than chances that you miss... I don't feel we're pointing fingers but of course the strikers want to score. "This is the highest level and when you have a good half an hour like we did... then yes we wish for more composure and more precision in the decision making and finishing." Tuchel continued his fine record against Zinedine Zidane's side in Europe's premier club competition - the German is the only manager to face Real as many as five times without ever losing in Champions League history. Having scored the away goal, Chelsea are in the driving seat to reach a first Champions League final since 2012 ahead of next week's return leg at Stamford Bridge. "It is just the first half (of the tie), we knew against Real Madrid it would be tough," Chelsea's Cesar Azpilicueta told BT Sport. "We started with courage, we had to perform at our best level. The semi-final of a Champions League asks you to play your best. We missed that last pass where we could choose the best option. "But in the overall analysis we performed well. As a unit I think we are all improving and all growing."

Champions League: Chelsea's Tuchel rues missed chances that let Real off the hook

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Chelsea made a bright start in heavy rain at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium and deservedly went ahead when U.S. forward Pulisic rounded Thibaut Courtois to score in the 14th minute.

Thirteen times European Cup winners Real looked ragged and short on ideas but pulled level in the 29th with a moment of true class from the talismanic Benzema, who controlled a knockdown before volleying into the roof of the net.

Chelsea looked the better side in the second half as well but could not break down Real again and then had to withstand some late pressure from the hosts, who visit Stamford Bridge in the second leg on May 5 looking to reach the final for a fifth time in eight years.

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel was frustrated his side could not make the most of their early dominance.

"We started the game very well, we were aggressive, we showed courage and quality, we deserved to win the first half. Unfortunately they scored from a set-piece, there was nothing else from them for us to defend," he said.

"It was a disappointing result at halftime the second half was a very tactical game. A bit more composure and precision in front of goal and we would have won the first half but we have to live with 1-1."

This was the first ever Champions League meeting between the two sides, who were both named as founding clubs in the controversial European Super League last week before Chelsea hastily withdrew from the competition.

It was far from an idyllic setting for such an occasion, played at the tiny, empty arena located at Real's training ground and the non-stop rain made it harder for either side to create flowing passing moves.

<h2>UNSTOPPABLE STRIKE</h2>

The visitors had the first clear opening when Pulisic nodded across to Timo Werner but former Chelsea keeper Courtois thwarted the German striker with his legs.

Pulisic took no chances the next time he got into the area, controlling a long ball from Antonio Rudiger and dribbling around Courtois before calmly passing it into the net, despite the efforts of Raphael Varane and Nacho to block the shot.

Benzema carved out Madrid's first chance through his own efforts, swivelling away from a Chelsea defender on the edge of the area before aiming for the top corner and hitting the post.

The Frenchman had better fortune with his next attempt, controlling Eder Militao's header following a corner before unleashing an unstoppable strike, scoring his 28th goal of the season and his 71st in the Champions League, joining Real great Raul as the competition's joint-fourth top scorer of all time.

The second half was more cagey as the spirit Chelsea had showed early in the match dried up as they tired, although they still managed to control the game while barely allowing Real a sniff until the end.

Real defender Marcelo admitted his side had underperformed but was confident about their chances of making it to the final in Istanbul on May 29.

"We knew that could happen but there's another game to come, we're still feeling good and we know what we have to do, the return leg will be different."

"We didn't dictate the pace of the game and had to adapt but we're feeling calm."

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic. Chelsea made a bright start in heavy rain at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium and deservedly went ahead when U.S. forward Pulisic rounded Thibaut Courtois to score in the 14th minute. Thirteen times European Cup winners Real looked ragged and short on ideas but pulled level in the 29th with a moment of true class from the talismanic Benzema, who controlled a knockdown before volleying into the roof of the net. Chelsea looked the better side in the second half as well but could not break down Real again and then had to withstand some late pressure from the hosts, who visit Stamford Bridge in the second leg on May 5 looking to reach the final for a fifth time in eight years. Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel was frustrated his side could not make the most of their early dominance. "We started the game very well, we were aggressive, we showed courage and quality, we deserved to win the first half. Unfortunately they scored from a set-piece, there was nothing else from them for us to defend," he said. "It was a disappointing result at halftime the second half was a very tactical game. A bit more composure and precision in front of goal and we would have won the first half but we have to live with 1-1." This was the first ever Champions League meeting between the two sides, who were both named as founding clubs in the controversial European Super League last week before Chelsea hastily withdrew from the competition. It was far from an idyllic setting for such an occasion, played at the tiny, empty arena located at Real's training ground and the non-stop rain made it harder for either side to create flowing passing moves. UNSTOPPABLE STRIKE The visitors had the first clear opening when Pulisic nodded across to Timo Werner but former Chelsea keeper Courtois thwarted the German striker with his legs. Pulisic took no chances the next time he got into the area, controlling a long ball from Antonio Rudiger and dribbling around Courtois before calmly passing it into the net, despite the efforts of Raphael Varane and Nacho to block the shot. Benzema carved out Madrid's first chance through his own efforts, swivelling away from a Chelsea defender on the edge of the area before aiming for the top corner and hitting the post. The Frenchman had better fortune with his next attempt, controlling Eder Militao's header following a corner before unleashing an unstoppable strike, scoring his 28th goal of the season and his 71st in the Champions League, joining Real great Raul as the competition's joint-fourth top scorer of all time. The second half was more cagey as the spirit Chelsea had showed early in the match dried up as they tired, although they still managed to control the game while barely allowing Real a sniff until the end. Real defender Marcelo admitted his side had underperformed but was confident about their chances of making it to the final in Istanbul on May 29. "We knew that could happen but there's another game to come, we're still feeling good and we know what we have to do, the return leg will be different." "We didn't dictate the pace of the game and had to adapt but we're feeling calm."

Champions League: Benzema stunner for Real frustrates impressive Chelsea

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard was thrown on for the last 15 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Valdebebas in what was only the Belgian's second appearance in three months but Madrid could not find a way through.&nbsp;

Atletico are now two points clear at the top of La Liga and can extend that advantage to five by winning away at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.&nbsp;

Barcelona could pull level on points with Real Madrid if they overcome Villarreal.&nbsp;

Real Madrid struggled for chances and the concern will be that numerous injuries and fatigue are catching up with Zinedine Zidane's side at a crucial moment in the season.&nbsp;

"It's two points dropped, that's obvious, we lacked a lot going forward, especially at the start of the game," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"We weren't sharp but that can happen. We have to go again on Tuesday."

They play Chelsea at home on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals and it is possible none of Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde or Lucas Vazquez, all absent due to injury, will return.

Kroos and Mendy have the best chance, with Zidane saying afterwards they would be assessed on Sunday.

Hazard could feature against his former club after coming on for the final quarter of an hour but the fact Zidane waited so long to introduce him suggests he is still not considered match fit, having now played 30 minutes since the end of January.&nbsp;

"I think in 15 minutes he did well," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"He played with spark, with energy. The most important thing was nothing was bothering him. He can make a difference, absolutely, and we're going to need him."

After an impressive few weeks in which Real Madrid knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League and became favourites to overhaul Atletico in La Liga, Zidane's team have now been held to three draws in their last four matches, all of them without scoring a goal.&nbsp;

Neither side had much success in the first half but the game opened up in the second as the rain poured down and the ball began to skid across the turf.&nbsp;

Rodrygo struck the bar, his overhit cross almost flying in, before Betis had three chances in 10 minutes, the best of them falling to Borja Iglesias but he hesitated and Dani Carvajal intervened.&nbsp;

Madrid, though, came again as Luka Modric's bending effort was saved before Marcelo found space in the box but skewed his finish wide of the post.&nbsp;

Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola had come on, with Zidane deploying wing-backs to find a winner, and then Hazard was introduced with 15 minutes left.&nbsp;

Hazard weaved inside and picked out Vinicius Junior but Vinicius slipped with the goal in sight. Madrid had to settle for a point.&nbsp;

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea. Eden Hazard was thrown on for the last 15 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Valdebebas in what was only the Belgian's second appearance in three months but Madrid could not find a way through. Atletico are now two points clear at the top of La Liga and can extend that advantage to five by winning away at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Barcelona could pull level on points with Real Madrid if they overcome Villarreal. Real Madrid struggled for chances and the concern will be that numerous injuries and fatigue are catching up with Zinedine Zidane's side at a crucial moment in the season. "It's two points dropped, that's obvious, we lacked a lot going forward, especially at the start of the game," said Zidane. "We weren't sharp but that can happen. We have to go again on Tuesday." They play Chelsea at home on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals and it is possible none of Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde or Lucas Vazquez, all absent due to injury, will return. Kroos and Mendy have the best chance, with Zidane saying afterwards they would be assessed on Sunday. Hazard could feature against his former club after coming on for the final quarter of an hour but the fact Zidane waited so long to introduce him suggests he is still not considered match fit, having now played 30 minutes since the end of January. "I think in 15 minutes he did well," said Zidane. "He played with spark, with energy. The most important thing was nothing was bothering him. He can make a difference, absolutely, and we're going to need him." After an impressive few weeks in which Real Madrid knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League and became favourites to overhaul Atletico in La Liga, Zidane's team have now been held to three draws in their last four matches, all of them without scoring a goal. Neither side had much success in the first half but the game opened up in the second as the rain poured down and the ball began to skid across the turf. Rodrygo struck the bar, his overhit cross almost flying in, before Betis had three chances in 10 minutes, the best of them falling to Borja Iglesias but he hesitated and Dani Carvajal intervened. Madrid, though, came again as Luka Modric's bending effort was saved before Marcelo found space in the box but skewed his finish wide of the post. Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola had come on, with Zidane deploying wing-backs to find a winner, and then Hazard was introduced with 15 minutes left. Hazard weaved inside and picked out Vinicius Junior but Vinicius slipped with the goal in sight. Madrid had to settle for a point.

Below-par Real Madrid held by Betis with Chelsea test to come