For months, Fernando Torres has been blasted for his inconsistent play and lack of production. Many questioned whether the Spanish striker was still considered elite. For the fourth time in three years, Torres has quieted the critics with a stellar performance in a major tournament.
Few will remember Torres' performance back in the 2010 World Cup. He had a few moments of brilliance but he looked slow, tired, and ineffective. He was also overshadowed by a tremendous performance from striking partner David Villa. However, Torres helped set up the eventual game winner in Final.
Two years later, Torres was a major player in Chelsea's race to a Champions League winning run. He scored three goals and assisted on four others. He scored two of his goals in a blowout win, but the third goal was huge. With his team trailing 2-1 against Barcelona, Torres scored the second goal in stoppage to seal the Spanish side's fate. Even though his team was already qualifying, Torres' goal left no doubt.
A few months later, Torres was the Golden Boot winner at the Euro Cup with three goals; his final goal came in the final and gave Spain a 3-0 lead. A few minutes after scoring his goal, he assisted on Juan Mata's goal to punctuate a 4-0 victory.
Many could argue that the aforementioned feats were produced when the outcome was already beyond question. However, what Torres did in the Europa League was unquestionably clutch for Chelsea. Torres finished the tournament with five goals, including a terrific solo effort in the final to give Chelsea a 1-0 lead. He had three big goals against Rubin Kazan in the quarterfinals and added another in the semifinal against FC Basel.
Even if Torres is no longer a consistent goal scorer, there can be no question that the man is ready to step up in the limelight.
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