Joe Cole claims Chelsea’s win over Borussia Dortmund could be ‘pivotal’ in the club’s development

Joe Cole has claimed Chelsea’s Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund could prove to be ‘pivotal’ in their development.

The Blues progressed to the last eight of the competition on Tuesday after beating the German side 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.

Raheem Sterling opened the scoring in the first-half, before Kai Havertz scored the winner from the spot after re-taking a kick that had first hit the post.

It meant the tie ended 2-1 on aggregate, with the passion from the Chelsea players, fans and coaching staff clear to see after the game.

Cole, speaking on BT Sport after the game, said Chelsea are ‘fighting’ despite their poor form, praising the team’s showing in London.   

Joe Cole has insisted Chelsea’ win over Borussia Dortmund could be ‘pivotal’ in their progress

Manager Graham Potter was overcome with emotion at full time following the 2-1 aggregate win

Cole expressed his delight at the result and claimed his former side are ‘fighting’ despite their poor run

‘Outstanding performance from front to back’, Cole said. ‘This can be really pivotal in this team’s development. 

‘It was a huge, huge game for Graham Potter and I saw a team emerging there. A comfortable 2-0 win against real dangerous team. 

‘This team is used to winning trophies, they’re used to being on top, they’re in uncharted territory. They know the club is still fighting. There not on top but they’re fighting.’

Chelsea have struggled for form under Potter and there had been calls to remove the former Brighton boss from his position but the win will give him and his side a much-needed boost.

Cole said teams will not want to play Chelsea in the coming weeks after Tuesday night’s result

Kai Havertz (right) scored the winner for the Blues from the penalty spot in the second half

Cole, who made over 250 appearances for Chelsea as a player, insisted teams will be worried about facing Chelsea going forward. 

‘It’s huge pressure to play for any top club but especially Chelsea. You’re never comfortable as a player at this club. 

‘There were little sparks of it on Saturday. Havertz was outstanding tonight. 

‘It’s a big, big moment in the season for Chelsea. You don’t want to be playing Chelsea in the next couple of weeks.’