Barcelona Faces Chelsea Again, 16 Years After Controversial Semifinal

Stamford Bridge, London — On November 25, 2026, Barcelona and Chelsea will compete in a highly anticipated match, rekindling a fierce rivalry that began with a memorable semifinal in the 2008-2009 UEFA Champions League.

That year, the two clubs battled in an unforgettable encounter that left both scars and glory. Chelsea took the first leg at Camp Nou with a 0-0 draw, setting the stage for a tense return match at Stamford Bridge.

Barcelona, under then-coach Pep Guardiola, faced significant challenges as they entered the second leg. Key players Carles Puyol and Thierry Henry were unavailable, alongside an injury to Rafa Márquez. Guardiola improvised, placing Yaya Touré in defense and moving Andrés Iniesta forward.

In a dramatic turn, Chelsea’s Michael Essien scored a stunning volley just nine minutes into the match. The home team executed a tactical masterpiece, stifling Barcelona’s offensive efforts.

Despite dominating possession, Barcelona struggled to create clear chances. Chelsea maintained pressure and even had opportunities to extend their lead, thwarted only by goalkeeper Víctor Valdés and missing chances from striker Didier Drogba.

With time winding down, Barcelona finally struck back. In the 93rd minute, Lionel Messi set up Iniesta, who unleashed a strike that secured a 1-1 draw and advanced Barcelona to the final under the old away goals rule. This moment, dubbed the “Iniestazo,” is now a legendary highlight of the club’s history.

However, the match sparked controversy when a potential penalty for Chelsea was not awarded after a handball by Samuel Eto’o. Chelsea players, including Michael Ballack and Drogba, voiced their frustration vehemently.

As the clubs meet once again, the ghosts of that historic match loom large. For Barcelona, it’s a chance to recreate past glory. For Chelsea, it’s a quest for justice. The upcoming match promises to be a reminder of their storied rivalry and the delicate balance of fortune and misfortune in football history.