'We absolutely have to be perfect' - Chelsea boss Emma Hayes sends stark warning to players as they prepare to take on 'best team in the world' Barcelona in Champions League second leg

Hayes has sent a strict warning to her players regarding their performances levels ahead of the Champions League second leg against Barcelona on Saturday.

The Blues boss has claimed her team will need to be 'absolutely perfect' at Stamford Bridge if they are to replicate the first leg scoreline, when they shocked the Catalans by winning 1-0 at Camp Nou, handing them their first defeat at the stadium in five years.

“They’re the best team in the world,” Hayes said via Yahoo Sport. “I’ve said it a million times: they know how to be in this position. Barcelona can hurt you in so many different ways.

"We have to be so, so mindful that you can’t switch off for one single second. This is a game that’s played in the head first and foremost and we know we absolutely have to be perfect to progress.”

Erin Cuthbert's effort in the first half is the only thing separating the two sides heading into the second leg, as both teams eye a spot in the final against either Paris Saint Germain or Lyon.

“It just feels like a longer half-time, that’s all it is,” Hayes added. “We’re at the midway stage of a game that’s a minimum of 180 minutes long.

"There may be adjustments for half-time and we’re ready for the second half, that’s how I present it to the players.”

The game will take place on Saturday evening at 5:30pm UK time. Following the semi-final, Chelsea's attention will shift back to the Women's Super League, as they look to close the gap on league leaders Manchester City.