Juventus’ 4-0 win over FC Nordsjaelland, combined with Chelsea’s victory over Shakhtar Donetsk, has set Group E up perfectly going into the last two rounds. In particular, this clash is now pivotal.
If Juventus win, then the holders are staring an early exit from the Champions League. However, if Chelsea come away with a point or more, then the Bianconeri will probably be in the Europa League in the spring. Whilst Ukraine champions Shakhtar Donetsk lurk up the top of the Group as well. All three have the posibility to qualify to the latter stages of the tournament.
A last minute winner from Victor Moses was crucial against Shakhtar for Chelsea. The Nigerian headed home late which has ensured that Chelsea remain in the fight for qualification. With Shakthar playing FC Nordsjaelland, a win looks likely. Meaning the team who comes out on top tonight will have a much greater chance to succeed in qualification.
Chelsea Last 5 Results – W D W D L
17/11/12 – West Brom 2 – 1 Chelsea
11/11/12 – Chelsea 1 – 1 Liverpool
07/11/12 – Chelsea 3 – 2 Shakhtar Donetsk
03/11/12 – Swansea 1 – 1 Chelsea
31/10/12 – Chelsea 5 – 4 Man United
Juventus Last 5 Results – W L W W D
17/11/12 – Juventus 0 – 0 Lazio
10/11/12 – Pescara 1 – 6 Juventus
07/11/12 – Juventus 4 – 0 FC Nordsjaelland
03/11/12 – Juventus 1 – 3 Internazionale
31/10/12 – Juventus 2 – 1 Bologna
Although Juventus can no longer brag their unbeaten streak, the Italians are currently top of Serie A, having only lost the one game. Chelsea find themselves third in the Premier League, having come under some scrutiny for their lacklustre form.
Probable Line Up: Chelsea
Petr Cech – Branislav Ivanovic – Gary Cahill – David Luiz – Ryan Bertrand – Ramires – John Obi Mikel – Juan Mata – Oscar – Eden Hazard – Fernando Torres
Probable Line Up: Juventus
Buffon – Lichsteiner – Bonucci – Barzalgi – Chiellini – Claudio Marchisio - Vidal – Andrea Pirlo – Asamoah - Matri – Giovinco
Predicted Score: 2-2
Having seen Juventus' recent form it is hard to imagine them losing such a crucial game to their season. After their long waited return to the Champions League they will be keen to ensure it is one to remember. However, with Chelsea just as desperate to win I can see the tie having a similar approach to the first leg. Chelsea I think will look to attack with Hazard, Oscar and Mata, and whilst Juventus rarely lose, they too will have fight in them dictated through Andrea Pirlo.
I think the game will be a draw. Which will leave excitement down the final match day to see who will qualify from Group E into the latter stages of the tournament.
Source: DSG
