Bosingwa to keep lid on Messi

Portugal international Jose Bosingwa was, as predicted, given the task of shackling Barcelona’s Argentinian star Lionel Messi as Chelsea faced the Spaniards in the Champions League semi-final at the Nou Camp.

Didier Drogba was chosen to play a lone striking role while Michael Ballack and John Mikel Obi were both given holding roles in midfield.

Messi, Samuel Eto’o and Thierry Henry, with 90 goals between them this season, were all handed starting places while former Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen was among their substitutes.

TEAMS:

BARCELONA: Valdes, Dani Alves, Marquez, Pique, Abidal, Xavi, Toure Yaya, Iniesta, Messi, Eto’o, Henry.

CHELSEA: Cech, Ivanovic, Alex, Terry, Bosingwa, Mikel, Ballack, Essien, Lampard, Malouda, Drogba.