Di Matteo proud of history-making Blues

Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo says his side “made history” by progressing to the Champions League quarter-finals with victory over Napoli.

The Blues went into Wednesday’s last-16 tie 3-1 down on aggregate after defeat in Naples, but triumphed 4-1 following extra time at Stamford Bridge to secure passage to the next round.

The interim boss was understandably delighted with his squad following the win, telling ITV: “It was a fantastic effort and a fantastic game as well, to watch two great teams on the pitch.”

“I think we made history tonight because we were in such a difficult position before the game.”

“We knew it would take a lot to go through and the performance of the whole team was outstanding.”

While the 41-year-old initially refused to single out his senior players, he conceded their experience in important matches had helped Chelsea to progress.

“It was not just the senior players it was the collective performance of the team,” he said.

“But the senior players put experience on pitch because they are used to playing this type of game.”

“David Luiz couldn’t walk anymore at the end and John Terry went on (playing) with cramp.”

“Didier Drogba, Fernando Torres, Petr Cech who made some great saves, and everyone playing were incredible tonight.”

Walter Mazzarri was disappointed Napoli’s European adventure had come to an end, but said his side’s lack of experience had shown in the important moments.

“It is a shame to go out like this,” Mazzarri said. “In terms of sheer performance, we created three or four scoring opportunities when it was still goalless. From Maggio’s injury onwards, we realised things were taking a turn for the worse.”

“We lacked a little experience and still need to grow. Chelsea were clinical, as is to be expected from a team packed with world class players. Unfortunately we were a little unlucky with some of our chances.”

“After 21 years we managed to equal the record set by Diego Maradona’s Napoli. We are proud of that. Our Champions League campaign was fantastic. We flew through the group phase and I’d give us eight out of 10 considering what was expected of us at the start of the season.”

“There were naive mistakes due to our lack of experience. We had almost everything to lose and it was understandable to make errors in this fiery atmosphere, yet we wasted so many chances against a side that before tonight hadn’t conceded on home turf.”

“What can I say? We were in any case fantastic in the Champions League. The lads gave their all and in the locker room I tried to boost their morale.”