Atalanta Faces Chelsea, Tottenham Welcomes The Czech Side – An Evening of European Action
All eyes turns to an important round of continental clashes. Two compelling matches take center stage in the schedule, with sides battling for vital standings in the group stage.
The Chelsea Conundrum
What version of Chelsea will we see in Bergamo? Their previous Champions League outing was a statement, an emphatic three-goal win against Barcelona that stood as a high point for their manager's reign. Yet, results has been unpredictable since then. A credible draw against Arsenal was followed by a defeat at Leeds, and a dour draw on the south coast means they arrive with momentum drained.
Awaiting them is a tricky opponent that sits tied in the standings with them. The Italian side suffered a heavy loss in their first game in Paris but have remained unbeaten on the continent since, defying their mid-table domestic form.
Tottenham's Test
Much like their London counterparts, Tottenham have been famously inconsistent. A heavy loss away to PSG, coming between painful losses to Arsenal and Fulham, had increased pressure on boss Thomas Frank. However, recent domestic outings – a win and a draw from six – have offered some stability.
This evening, they welcome a Slavia Prague side yet to win in the competition. These are exactly the type of match that simply must secure three points from for any hopes of climbing into the top eight, especially with forthcoming games versus Borussia Dortmund and Frankfurt on the horizon.
Elsewhere Across Europe
The drama extends beyond England and Italy. In a notable game, the Blaugrana will look to respond from their defeat as they welcome Eintracht Frankfurt. Meanwhile, free-scoring PSV will provide a major challenge to the defence of Diego Simeone's team. Finally, Monaco hosts Galatasaray in a match which promises to be a high-scoring affair. Every game begin at 8pm GMT.
A pivotal night for the tournament standings is upon us, with teams fighting to secure their path towards the knockout rounds.
