Timo Werner's wait for a goal from open play in the UEFA Champions League this season is finally over.
After scoring three times from the penalty spot in this season's competition, finding the back of the net against Krasnodar and Rennes (2) back in the group stages, the Germany international has finally delivered the goods from open play on the biggest occasion of all, firing the Blues into a one-goal lead against Real Madrid in the second leg of their semi-final showdown at Stamford Bridge this evening.
The former RB Leipzig striker was on hand to head home from almost right on the goal-line after fellow countryman Kai Havertz's chipped effort bounced back off the crossbar.
Havertz was slipped in by midfield ace N'Golo Kante and looked to dink the ball over former Chelsea shot-stopper Thibaut Courtois in the Madrid goal, only to see his effort strike the woodwork.
Fortunately for him, his blushes were spared thanks to Werner, who was alive to the danger to score his 12th goal of the season in all competitions.
Whilst Werner will have no doubt felt a rush of adrenaline fly through his veins, he will have also felt a sense of relief.
That is because just ten minutes prior to handing Thomas Tuchel's side the lead, Werner had already put the ball in the net, thinking he had handed the Blues the lead inside the opening 20 minutes. The Germany international tapped home Ben Chilwell's low cross from the left, only for him to be flagged offside by the linesman on the far side.
This time, however, the linesman was not going to deny Werner his big moment.
However, the former Leipzig star, who has come in for some criticism this season for his lack of goals, was keen to make sure he was onside this time, glancing over to the linesman on the far side before wheeling away to celebrate and eventually be mobbed by his jubilant teammates.
And it is fair to say that several Blues fans noticed Wener's antics of having a quick glance at the referee's assistant before ensuring it was safe to celebrate.
On Twitter, @omegatailgater said: "I looovee how Werner is so unsure of himself he looks back after his goal to the linesman!"
@billdfilippo said: "Werner immediately looking at the linesman has killed me."
@Zgolooo added: Werner had to look to the linesman three time before he could celebrate. Please let Timo have his goals in peace."
