Best defences of Europe in the 21st century, FC Barcelona and Chelsea head to head

The Barça of 2022/23 is on course for having the best defence of the century so far in Europe's top five leagues. We have already seen Marc André Ter Stegen match the record for clean sheets that until now was held by that magnificent Chelsea side of 2004/05 under the management of Jose Mourinho. Petr Cech was unbeaten in 26 games that season, and the German has already equalled that record and has five chances to go even further.

But it's not just about the goalkeepers. Cech was supported by a mighty defence featuring Terry, Carvalho, Ferreira, Gallas and Makélélé. We are safe to speak of Barça 2022/23 in the same terms.

Goals conceded

That Chelsea side only conceded 15 goals in 38 league games. Peter Cech himself played in 35 of those games, letting in 13 goals. That's the lowest tally of the century in Europe's top five leagues. But Barça have only let in 11 goals in 33 games and could well beat that.

But it's by no means a given. There are five games to go, and Barça will need to avoid conceding more than four goals. There's still some work to be done.

Home strength

Where Barça have been especially out standing has been in their defensive form at home. Mourinho's side didn't do too badly either, only leaking six goals all season at Stamford Bridge. That is indeed pretty amazing, but Barça have only conceded two goals at home this season, and there are only two more games to go at Spotify Camp Nou. Another record that could be about to fall.

Another phenomenal achievement by Chelsea 2004/5 was a run of ten consecutive games without conceding a single goal. That's one record Barça won't be beating this season, although they did string together an amazing run of six clean sheets in a row.