Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho said reaching the Champions League last 16 was the only positive he could draw on after his side’s 1-0 defeat by Basel.
Mohamed Salah’s late winner came after Samuel Eto’o was carried off with a groin injury in a poor Chelsea display.
The Blues qualified thanks to Schalke’s draw with Steaua Bucharest.
“A bad performance, a deserved defeat but because of other results, we qualify. That is the only positive thing from this night,” said Mourinho.
“I did not like anything from the first minute. We started with a defensive mistake.”
Champions League: Chelsea deserved defeat – Jose Mourinho
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho said reaching the Champions League last 16 was the only positive he could draw on after his side’s 1-0 defeat by Basel.
Mohamed Salah’s late winner came after Samuel Eto’o was carried off with a groin injury in a poor Chelsea display.
The Blues qualified thanks to Schalke’s draw with Steaua Bucharest.
“A bad performance, a deserved defeat but because of other results, we qualify. That is the only positive thing from this night,” said Mourinho.
“I did not like anything from the first minute. We started with a defensive mistake.”
“The team only had a bit of stability and control in the second half. I felt the team was tired. They paid the price of the international break and a crucial match against West Ham,” Mourinho added.
“There was no reaction from the players, and wrong decisions. I am not sad with them, as I understand they were not fresh.
“Maybe I should have made more changes, but after playing so well against West Ham, there was the temptation to play the same team.
“We should get a better result than this. But I do not blame the players.”
Chelsea will need to beat Steaua Bucharest in their final game to finish as Group E winners. A draw will also confirm top spot if Basel draw with or lose to Schalke in their last game.
The Swiss side, who are now second in the group, only need a point to join Chelsea in the last 16.
BBC SPORT
About the Author
