Monaco boss Didier Deschamps said his players are living the dream after beating Chelsea 3-1 in their Champions League semi-final first leg. "We are one step away from the dream," said Deschamps. "It's a super result and we will go to Stamford Bridge with lots of hope.
"My players always carry an attacking threat and even with 10 men I was confident we could defend.
"I think all of my players show up in the big matches."
The match was locked at 1-1 when Monaco defender Andreas Zikos was sent-off after tangling with Claude Makelele.
Fernando Morientes appeared to be elbowed in the face by Chelsea defender Marcel Desailly immediately prior to the incident involving Makelele.
But it was Monaco who took charge after the dismissal, with Morientes and substitute Shabani Nonda scoring as the home team built a first-leg lead.
"I am very proud of the effort of my players," added Deschamps. "Luckily Zikos' sending off didn't cost us dear. My team responded exceptionally well."
"Morientes knows what the Champions League is all about. He goes way beyond his duty and is an example for others to look up to.
"To be even one goal in front after the first leg is good, we've got two."
MMIX
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