Bergamo's Team Hosts The Blues, Spurs Hosts The Czech Side – An Evening of Champions League Action
The focus turns to an important round of continental clashes. A pair of compelling encounters headline the schedule, with teams competing for crucial points in the group stage.
The Chelsea Conundrum
What version of Chelsea will appear in Bergamo? Their previous European outing served as a declaration, an emphatic 3-0 victory against Barcelona which was a high point for Enzo Maresca's reign. Yet, results has proven elusive since then. A credible tie against Arsenal came before a loss at Leeds, and a dour stalemate on the south coast has left them with confidence sapped.
They face a tricky Atalanta who are tied in the standings alongside them. La Dea suffered a 4-0 loss in their first game in Paris but have gone undefeated in Europe ever since, defying somewhat mid-table domestic form.
Spurs Seeking Consistency
Similar to their rivals, Ange Postecoglou's side have been notoriously inconsistent. A heavy loss away to PSG, sandwiched between painful defeats to Arsenal and Fulham, had increased pressure on boss Thomas Frank. But, the last two domestic outings – four points available – have provided a measure of calm.
This evening, they host Czech opponents yet to win in this year's tournament. These are precisely the kind of fixture which Spurs need to be won if they are to climb towards the knockout places, especially with forthcoming challenges versus Borussia Dortmund and Frankfurt on the horizon.
Elsewhere Across Europe
The action is not limited to those two matches. In a notable game, the Blaugrana will look to respond from their defeat when they host Eintracht Frankfurt. At the same time, free-scoring PSV will provide a stern test to the defence of Atlético Madrid. Finally, Monaco entertains the Turkish champions in a match that has all the makings of a potential goal-fest. Every game begin this evening.
A pivotal night in the group stage awaits, as clubs fighting to secure their path towards the knockout rounds.
