Basel vs Chelsea: Preview, Team News, Likely Line-Up, Key Man & Predicted Score

Chelsea are in Switzerland to take on FC Basel knowing they will secure safe passage to the knockout stages of the Champions League if they avoid defeat tonight.

The Blues head into the game sitting top of Group E, three points clear of Shalke and four ahead of Basel, so the west Londoners can ensure qualification to the last 16 with a point in this penultimate fixture.

However, while qualification will come as a welcome relief, Jose Mourinho has eyes on finishing top and will therefore be determined to come away with the three points that will ensure that happens with a game to spare.

Basel shocked Chelsea by coming away from Stamford Bridge with a win on Matchday One but Mouriho’s men recovered to win their next three games on the bounce, so should be confident of settling the score tonight.

Team News

The visitors will have to make-do without the services of David Luiz after the defender was ruled out for a week with a knee injury. His absence means Gary Cahill will start alongside John Terry at the back once again.

Ashley Cole has travelled with the rest of the squad despite an on-going rib problem but he’s expected to be among the subs once again with Cesar Azpilicueta continuing at left-back.

Striker Fernando Torres is in-line to make his first start in four weeks after recovering from an adductor injury, Samuel Eto’o will be the one to drop out, while Frank Lampard could get a rest after his heroics against former club West Ham at the weekend.

Basel will be without forward Marcelo Diaz for the game after he broke a rib during the recent international break. Defender Behrang Safari could make a comeback after missing recent games with a thigh injury.

Likely Line-Up

Key Man

Oscar: The Brazilian was in excellent form at Upton Park on Saturday and will once again be relied upon to be the Blues creative hub this evening. Basel will have to find a way to stop the attacker from playing if they want to get a result.

Predicted Score

Basel 1-2 Chelsea: The Blues will be out for revenge and in much better form than they were when the two sides last met, so I can see them edging this one tonight.

What would be your starting line-up be for the game and what’s your predicted score? Share your views below.