The Portuguese winger stole the show during the quarter-finals of the Premier League 2 title play-offs as he scored three crucial goals against Arsenal – two of them equalisers before a stoppage-time winner – to help Chelsea Under-21s progress to Sunday’s semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur.

That means it is another derby in north London for Mark Robinson and his team, when we travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for a midday kick-off.

Looking ahead to that game at the 62,850-capacity venue, against a Spurs side which topped the table in this season’s league stage, Diego Moreira is hoping to continue his form to help set up a home final for the Blues against Reading or Sunderland in a week’s time.

‘We know Spurs are a tough opponent, but it’s another London clash, which will bring excitement and entertainment for sure,’ said Moreira.

‘I am looking forward to the game and it will be a tough fixture, but that makes it even more exciting. I am ready to turn up and hopefully make the same impact as I did against Arsenal.’

In that quarter-final win at Arsenal, the Gunners started the game as the more dominant side and opened the scoring in the 13th minute, but that didn’t affect the Blues, as Moreira found his first to make the scoreline equal at the break.

Despite the home side adding another after the interval, Moreira tapped in a rebound then followed it up with a curling effort into the top corner, sealing the victory with seconds left on the clock.

The 19-year-old hopes that performance will give the Blues continued confidence and momentum as we head into our semi-final against Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday.

‘It was a great feeling after the Arsenal game. I was extremely proud of my performance and it was great to see how much the win meant to the squad and the coaches.

‘Before the fixture, I made sure I was in the zone and was completely locked in so I would be able to be mentally prepared to go out and give my all.

‘Being mentally ready is crucial – especially when heading into these big fixtures. Having control of your mindset will develop your performance and enable you to go out and make a difference.’

Moreira secured the winner against the Gunners during stoppage time with seconds to spare on the clock. He highlighted the importance of continuing the momentum throughout the game and keeping energy levels high to the end.

‘It was even at half-time, so we knew we had to come out and make a difference,’ said Moreira. ‘Being united and knowing we all had to work together was an important factor to us winning the game.’

Looking at his impressive individual contribution, Moreira was delighted to grab his first hat-trick at Chelsea, and pleased with the finish he executed to seal the victory during stoppage time.

‘One of my goals showed the importance of remaining alert and focused throughout every second of the game. I picked up a loose ball that came from Tyrique’s rebound, so to be reactive and conscious of your surroundings is crucial.

‘I was extremely happy with my final finish and getting my first-ever hat-trick. I have been working really hard on perfecting my finishing skills, so it was great to see my work pay off.’

The Portugal Under-21 international also feels the experience he has of playing for his country under pressure in front of large crowds is proving invaluable during this play-off conclusion to our season.

‘I love these knockout games as it gives a different type of pressure. It is a one-chance game, so there is no excuse to not give everything.

‘I always reflect on my experiences with Portugal. During the international break I was exposed to a large crowd and playing against unfamiliar opponents, therefore it teaches you how to adapt and not be thrown off by change.’