Bergamo's Team Faces The Blues, Spurs Hosts Slavia Prague – An Evening of European Action
All eyes is on a crucial round of continental clashes. A pair of fascinating encounters headline the lineup, as sides competing for important points in the group stage.
A Question Mark Over Chelsea
What version of Chelsea will show up on Italian soil? Their previous European performance served as a declaration, a comprehensive three-goal win against the Catalan giants that stood as a high point in Enzo Maresca's tenure. Yet, results has been elusive since then. A solid tie with Arsenal was followed by a loss away to Leeds United, followed by a dour stalemate at Bournemouth has left them with momentum sapped.
They face a tricky opponent who are tied in the standings alongside them. The Italian side suffered a 4-0 opening defeat at PSG but have remained unbeaten on the continent since, defying somewhat modest results in Serie A.
Tottenham's Test
Similar to their London counterparts, Ange Postecoglou's side have been notoriously inconsistent. A heavy loss in Paris, sandwiched between disappointing defeats in the Premier League, piled pressure on manager the Danish coach. But, recent domestic outings – a win and a draw from six – have provided a measure of calm.
This evening, they welcome Czech opponents still searching for their first victory in the competition. These are precisely the kind of fixture that simply must be won if they are of climbing into the top eight, particularly given upcoming games versus Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt still to come.
Elsewhere Across Europe
The action extends beyond those two matches. One notable game, Barcelona will look to respond after their loss when they host Eintracht Frankfurt. Meanwhile, high-flying PSV Eindhoven pose a major challenge for the backline of Diego Simeone's team. Finally, Monaco entertains Galatasaray in a match which promises of a potential high-scoring affair. Every game kick off at 8pm GMT.
A crucial night in the group stage is upon us, with teams striving to secure a route into the latter stages.
