Speaking to reporters in the wake of Chelsea's 1-1 draw with Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday night, manager Antonio Conte admitted that his team ended up paying the price for a single mistake they made against the Spanish side.

Having hit the woodwork twice in the 32nd and 40th minutes, Brazilian winger Willian opened the scoring for Chelsea in the 62nd minute but Barcelona equalized through Lionel Messi 13 minutes later after a mistake from Andreas Christensen.

''We were very close to play a perfect game. We made one mistake but against this opponent like Messi and Iniesta if you make a mistake you pay. It is a pity,'' said Conte.

''At the end of the game we are disappointed for the final result. We hit two posts with Willian. There is a bit of disappointment. But this game it must give us a lot of confidence that the qualification is open.

''They are a strong and fantastic team but we showed that we are ready to work together defensively. You must believe you can do something incredible at the Nou Camp.''

Chelsea and Barcelona will meet in the return leg at  the Camp Nou on March 14.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : chelseafc.com