Chelsea
Chelsea vs Shakhtar Preview, Team News, Likely Line-ups & Predicted Score
Chelsea welcome Shakhtar Donetsk to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night. Here’s a preview with team news, likely line-ups and predicted score for the big game.
Chelsea will look to get the defence of their Champions League trophy back on track as Shakhtar Donetsk come to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.
Shakhtar shocked the reigning champions with a 2-1 victory a fortnight ago in what was an impressive display by the Ukrainians.
The defeat has left the Blues sitting just a point above Juventus in Group E and three points behind leaders Donetsk, so revenge tonight in the form of three points is crucial for Roberto Di Matteo’s men.
Chelsea head into the game off the back of Saturday’s 1-1 draw away at Swansea which saw them knocked off top spot in the Premier League, and they face a side that are yet to lose in all competitions this season and are currently 12 points clear at the top of their domestic league.
However, the visitors have never won in England and Chelsea have a formidable home record in Europe, losing just five of 88 games.
Team News
Ashley Cole has been ruled out of the game due to a hamstring injury picked up against Swansea on Saturday, so Ryan Bertrand is expected to step in at left back.
Captain John Terry is likely to return after completing his four-game domestic ban. Juan Mata and David Luiz are also expected to return after missing the weekends action with minor knocks.
Shakhtar come to the Bridge with a full bill of health with no injuries or suspensions to deal with.
Likely Line-ups
Predicted Score
Despite the visitors almost perfect record in all competitions this season, with Juventus the only side so far to deny them the three points, we think Chelsea may prove too strong for Donetsk on Wednesday night. The Blues are superb at the Bridge on European nights and if they can contain Mikhitaryan and Willian, they can take control of Group E. Chelsea 2-1 Shakhtar.
What would your team be and what’s your score prediction? Get involved in the comments section.
Fancy a flutter on the game? Claim your £10 welcome bonus at Sky Bet and enjoy some of the best match odds in the business.
