We started shaky and took more control as the game progressed. I was worried about Pirlo starting after a long absence, but he did well. Monaco is a good team, and are hard to break down. I didn't think they would be this frustrating, but I can see why Arsenal struggled against them in that first leg. They are well organized, and are physically powerful, as well as quick on the counter. They're the perfect 'small' team.
We could have conceded early on, and life would have been much more difficult if we had. Fortunately, we didn't and the final result favors us a lot now since it forces Monaco to open up next game. Vidal made some great tackles that reminded me of the old Vidal that we all fell in love with. He put in a very solid, passionate, and inspired performance. He enjoyed that goal, and I hope it restores some confidence in the offensive side of his game. The rest of the team was okay, Buffon was spectacular, best perfomance in a long time. Just when I was starting to think his reaction speeds just aren't what they used to be, he goes ahead and saves our blushes, while Licht was having a horrible night, just couldn't get anything going on that right wing.
Overall, it was an alright performance, and the team showed good resolve to take control of the game after a tough start. This is the CL quarter final, and it is certainly true that any team at this stage will be a tough challenge, Monaco reminded us of that. I'm counting on Tevez and Morata to have a better game next week and cement a foot in the Semi's with an early goal.. We're close, very close..