Cesar Azpilicueta believes we are reaping the rewards from a new-found ruthlessness in front goal, after the Blues secured our place in Sunday’s Club World Cup final courtesy of a 3-1 win over Monterrey.
It’s now three wins in a row, with 12 goals scored in the process, and the 3-1 defeat at West Ham United earlier this month, in which we wasted a host of chances in the first half, may well have been a turning point in our season.
‘It was a good performance and a good result,’ said Azpilicueta. ‘It’s not easy to come here for the first time, with all of the adaptations, so we are very happy.
‘We are in a good run, we are getting the results and now we will play the final on Sunday so hopefully it will be another good game for us.
‘It’s important to score goals when you have chances. We’ve scored a lot in our last few games, which is important for the confidence. The main thing, though, was getting the result, and the fact we won 3-1 tells us it was a good performance.’
Having only joined the club back in August, Azpilicueta, who is growing in stature with every performance, already has an opportunity to secure his first trophy.
The competition may not be afforded the same status in Europe as it is across the rest of the world, but the Spanish defender is understandably eager to emerge from Sunday’s clash with Corinthians as a Club World Cup winner.
‘I am very happy because I came here to win trophies,’ he explained. ‘This is a rare chance for us and we might not ever get another opportunity.
‘I am looking forward to the game against Corinthians, I hope I will be able to win my first trophy with Chelsea and then we can all enjoy the celebrations.’
Azpilicueta went on to praise the contribution of one player in particular, after seeing Juan Mata notch for the fourth successive game, his fellow countryman’s 11th goal of the campaign.
‘Last season he did well, but he’s improved even further, he’s very happy,’ said the 23-year-old.
‘I know him well, and the most important thing for him is that the club are winning trophies. He’s a very good player; he scores goals and creates chances for his team-mates so we are pleased to have him in our side.’