Havertz picks out toughest opponents in Chelsea's run to CL final

The Blues had to test themselves against the champions of Spain, Portugal, and the Europa League champions, among others, en route to Porto.

Kai Havertz feels Atletico Madrid and FC Porto’s “defensive strengths” made them Chelsea’s toughest opponents in their run to the Champions League final.

Chelsea were placed in Champions League Group E alongside Krasnodar, Rennes, and Europa League champions Sevilla. They made it to the knockout stage unbeaten, picking up 14 out of a possible 18 points.

They beat Atletico Madrid 3-0 over two legs at the last-16 stage before getting past FC Porto 2-1 on aggregate in the quarter-finals.

In the semi-final, they defeated 13-time winners of the competition Real Madrid, and are now set to lock horns with Premier League champions Manchester City in the final on Saturday.

“Porto and Atletico were difficult to play because of their defensive strengths,” Havertz told Chelsea’s official website. “They set themselves up in their own halves and wait for you to make a mistake.

“For me, those were the most difficult games. My favourite game would be the second leg against Real Madrid when we reached the final. That was good.

“There’s been a few good games, but for me the highlight would have to be the game against Real.”