Ramires' Incredible Chip vs Barcelona Still Remains The Most Important Goal In Chelsea History
Fernando Torres' goal gets the headlines, but this was more important.
Chelsea fans believe Ramires' incredible chip against Barcelona in their 2012 Champions League semi final clash remains the most important goal in club history.
A 1-0 win in the first leg meant Chelsea only had to avoid defeat at the Camp Nou to reach only their second Champions League final.
Disaster struck when goals from Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta gave Barca a 2-0 lead on the night and 2-1 lead on aggregate while Blues captain John Terry was also sent off.
On the stroke of half-time however, Ramires produced a moment of magic to swing the tie back ten-man Chelsea's favour.
The Brazilian started the move in his own half by laying the ball off to Frank Lampard.
Lampard then slid the ball through for Ramires, who had continued his lung-busting run into the box, for him to delicately chip over Victor Valdes.
Roberto Di Matteo's side spent the second half camped in their own half as Barcelona relentlessly attacked.
Fernando Torres managed to run through in the 92nd minute and score on the counter attack to make it 2-2 on the night and 3-2 on aggregate.
Despite all the fanfare and yes, THAT Gary Neville noise, Chelsea had already sealed their spot in the final without Torres' goal.
Many believe this is a disservice to Ramires, who produced a heroic performance across both legs.
Ramires was known for being an energetic presence in midfield which allowed Chelsea's attackers to strut their stuff without worry.
But he could produce lovely skill himself and is one of the most underrated midfielders of his era.
He'd stay at Chelsea for another four years, winning the Europa League and Premier League before joining Chinese outfit Jiangsu Suning.
Featured Image Credit: UEFATopics: Chelsea, Barcelona, Champions League
Daniel Marland