Photo: Getty Images

Chelsea were the underdogs for tonight’s Champions League clash with Barcelona, but the Blues put up a good show against the Spanish giants.

Chelsea could easily have the game 1-0 but a defensive mistake by Andreas Christensen led to a Lionel Messi equaliser.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte was pleased with the team’s performance and hailed the players for a strong defensive showing that made Thibaut Courtois have an easy night.

Conte said after the game: “We were very close to play a perfect game. We made one mistake but against this opponent like Messi and Iniesta if you make a mistake you pay. It is a pity. At the end of the game we are disappointed for the final result. We hit two posts with Willian. There is a bit of disappointment. But this game it must give us a lot of confidence that the qualification is open.

“They are a strong and fantastic team but we showed that we are ready to work together defensively. You must believe you can do something incredible at the Nou Camp.”

Conte added: “I don’t remember a good chance for Courtois to save. Now tomorrow we have to rest and prepare the game in the league. In 15 days we must be ready to prepare for Barcelona and be ready to suffer but create chances.”