Chelsea v Barcelona Preview : Team News, Expected Lineups & More
Chelsea host Barcelona in the round of 16 in UEFA Champions League at Stamford Bridge with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm on Tuesday, February 20.
The whole footballing world is waiting eagerly for this match. This match could prove to be a season defining encounter for both the sides. Barcelona will clearly go into the clash being the favourites to win it; while Chelsea will look to make a statement. The result of the first leg is going to be really important as an away goal will be crucial from Barcelona’s point of view. On the other hand, Antonio Conte will be hoping that his side can keep the clean sheet at Stamford Bridge in the first 90 minutes of the tie.
Team News & Possible Lineups :
Chelsea :
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte had given full rest to many of his star players against Hull City in the 5th round of match of FA Cup. It was only to keep those players in fully fresh for the match against Barcelona.
Courtois, Azpilicueta, Christensen, Alonso, Moses, Kante and Hazard were the among the players who were rested against Hull City; and will surely take part against Barcelona on Tuesday.
There may be some confusion for Antonio Conte to choose one between Morata and Giroud. But he will mostly likely to start Alvaro Morata.
Chelsea Possible XI :
Courtois, Moses, Azpilicueta, Christensen, Rudiger, Alonso, Kante, Fabregas, Willian, Morata, Hazard.
Barcelona :
On the other hand, Barcelona manager Valverde opted to go with a full strength starting eleven against Eibar in the La Liga match this weekend.
They will miss the service of Philippe Coutinho in this match as he is cup tied, having already played for Liverpool in UCL this season. Dembele is coming back from Injury and may take some part in the match.
Barcelona Possible XI:
Ter Stegen, Sergi Roberto, Piqué, Umtiti, Alba, Busquets, Rakitić, Paulinho, Iniesta, Messi, Luis Suárez.
Key Players :
Eden Hazard (Chelsea) :
Eden Hazard is one of the best dribblers in world football right now. His passing accuracy and ability to shoot from distance had kept him ahead of the other players. If Chelsea have to salvage something from this tie, then this man should perform at his level best.
Lionel Messi (Barcelona) :
Lionel Messi will be the key man to watch out for in this match for the Catalan Giants. The Chelsea defense will be busy in marking him but he can still create free space for Suarez who is a real goal threat in the opponent’s penalty box.
Prediction :
We will go with 1-1 draw in the first leg of the round of 16 clash between Chelsea and Barcelona.
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