Romelu Lukaku strikes as Chelsea reach FA Cup semis

Thomas Tuchel saluted Chelsea’s focus as they arrived at the FA Cup semi-finals for the third successive season after Romelu Lukaku inspired a 2-0 victory against Championship side Middlesbrough on Saturday. In what could have been a potential upset, Chelsea were never troubled as they made it six successive wins since Roman Abramovich put the European champions up for sale. Unsettled Belgian striker Lukaku opened the scoring with only his second goal in seven games. Hakim Ziyech increased Chelsea’s advantage before halftime at the Riverside Stadium.

The Blues killed off the quarter-last with minimal fuss after that, ensuring a last-four appearance at Wembley in April as they seek arrive at the final for a third consecutive year.

Chelsea, third in the Premier League and through to the Champions League quarter-finals, have won 12 of their past 13 games, with the exception of the League Cup last final penalty shoot-out loss against Liverpool.

“We were very focused and very serious from the beginning. We showed quality in decisive moments and scored two early goals which gave us a comfortable lead, but the effort was huge to not allow big chances,” Tuchel said.

“I’m impressed with the players’ focus. We accepted the ownership situation because we didn’t cause it. It isn’t in our hands, but it was important we showed the right spirit and took responsibility.

“This is very good. If you have the talent, it is a responsibility to show it.”