Chelsea vs. Malmo Champions League Group Stage MD 3 Preview

Get back on track in Europe.

Chelsea welcome Swedish League leaders Malmo to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night for a Champions League group stage game. Malmo sit top of the league in Sweden having played 23 games winning 13 drawing 5 and losing 5. In the Champions League Malmo sit bottom of the group having lost their first two games. A 0-3 loss to Juventus and a 4-0 loss to Zenit. Since the Zenit game they had played 3 games winning all three of those games. It paints a picture of a team struggling to get to grips with a tough group. 

Chelsea go into this game having lost the last Champions League game in Turin to Juventus 1-0. Chelsea sit 2nd in the group on goal difference. Since the last game we have beaten Southampton and Brentford and are performing well defensively but have been no where near as good offensively. Prior to the game Tuchel was asked about Chelsea’s form and he said it is a mix of having played too many games, chemistry, and maybe the play style. Tuchel did say that he might change formations in the future to increase the attacking output but I don’t think that’s going to happen anytime soon. When asked about Lukaku he said that it seems like he’s just tired mentally at the moment and needs to find that energy and joy again. A similar thing was said about Chilwell and Werner earlier in the season. A few of our players seem to be tired at the moment and the endless run of games does not help. These Malmo games come at a time when Chelsea face some relatively easy fixtures so it’s a good opportunity to rest some players and rotate others who might need game time and form. 

Chelsea Team Preview

Kepa should start in goal with Mendy rested for this game. I expect a back three of Chalobah, Silva, and Sarr along with Reece James, and Alonso playing as the wing backs. Saul, and Jorginho should make up the midfield with Mount, Hudson-Odoi, and Havertz starting up front. It is a heavily rotated team but some of these players need game time and the others need a rest. I wouldn’t be surprised if Barkley started in place of one of the forward players either. There will be plenty of quality players on the bench if they are needed to come on. 

Malmo Team Preview

Malmo tend to play with a back 5 or wing back system in the tougher games. Colak is there main threat up front while creative players like Christiansen, and Innocent also provide threat from the midfield and wide areas. Birmancevic plays as support striker of sorts to Colak and also gets in on the goals as well. Defensively they do struggle having conceded 7 goals in the Champions League so far. Malmo will most likely try to play on the counter in this game and allow Chelsea to have the ball. 

Starting XI Prediction

I think Tuchel will rotate the Chelsea team for this game but like I have seen from the defence I would like to see a 100 percent from whoever plays. The next two games in the Champions League are Malmo home and away and that should be 6 points. COME ON CHELSEA!!!

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Midweek Football Preview

Champions League football!

Champions League Group Stage MD 3

Group A

Club Brugge vs. Man City

Brugge sit 2nd in the table while City sit 3rd a point behind Brugge. Brugge have drawn one and won one since their last CL game while City have also done the same. Brugge have been playing well for a couple of seasons now and have done the same this season. City are never as dominant in Europe as they are in the league and this could be a tricky away fixture. 

Paris Saint Germain vs. RB Leipzig

PSG lead the group while Leipzig sit bottom of the group with 0 points. PSG have lost one and won one while Leipzig have won one and drawn one. This is a must not lose game for Leipzig because if results don’t go their way then with two games left all they could realistically achieve would be a place in the Europa League. PSG have all the star players but have been far from convincing in there games. 

Group B

Atletico Madrid vs. Liverpool

The table toppers go head to head with Atletico sitting two points behind Liverpool in the table. Atletico have played one and won that game since the last game while Liverpool have drawn one and won one. An away trip to Atletico is always a tough game and there is a bit of history there with Atletico having knocked out Liverpool 2 seasons ago. This will be a fun game to watch between two opposing styles of football and Liverpool are a team that can be beaten. 

FC Porto vs. AC Milan

Porto sit 3rd in the group with a point while Milan sit bottom of the group with no points. Porto have won their last two games while Milan have done the same. Milan are perhaps unlucky to be sitting bottom of the table because they more than went toe to toe with Liverpool and Atletico on their return to European football. This is a must not lose game for Milan because another loss could see them 6 points adrift of the top two and that makes the task very difficult. Porto would be in the same boat although they have slightly been underperforming this season. An interesting game. 

Group C

Besiktas vs. Sporting Lisbon

These two teams have lost both their opening games and are basically fighting for 3rd at the moment. Besiktas have won one and lost one while Lisbon have won their last two. A must win game for both teams. 

Ajax vs. Dortmund

Two teams that sit level on points with 6 at the top of the table. Ajax have lost one and won one since their last game while Dortmund have won their last two. Two teams with exciting styles of football. Ajax have been dominant all season while Dortmund have got going recently. This should be an exciting game to watch as these two teams fight it out at the top of the group. 

Group D

Shakhtar Donetsk vs. Real Madrid

Shakhtar sit bottom of the group with a point as they take on Real who sit 2nd in the group with 3. Shakhtar have drawn one and won one while Real Madrid have lost their one game that they have played. This will be a tricky game for Real Madrid and Shakhtar will believe that they can get something out of this game especially at home. 

Inter Milan vs. Sheriff

Inter sit 3rd in the table with a point while Sheriff sit top of the group having won both their games. Inter have won one and lost one while Sheriff have won both their games. Sheriff are the surprise group leaders and a win in this game would all but guarantee a place in the knockout stage. Inter will want to win this game to create some foothold in this group. One to watch. 

Group E

Barcelona vs. Dynamo Kyiv

Barcelona sit bottom of the group with 0 points while Kyiv sit 3rd with a point to their name. Barcelona have lost one and won one while Kyiv have drawn one and won one. A must win game for Barcelona while Kyiv will feel that they can get something out of the home team. Barcelona aren’t the dominant force they were with Messi but they still have some quality players in the team and are playing relatively well domestically. 

Benfica vs. Bayern Munich

Benfica sit 2nd in the group with 4 points while Bayern sit top of the group with 6 points. Benfica have lost one and won one while Bayern have done the same as well. A win for Bayern would all but guarantee a place in the knockout stage while Benfica have done relatively well as well. An interesting game for sure but Bayern look too good at the moment.

Group F

Man United vs. Atalanta

This group is turning out to be a group of death with United sitting 3rd with 3 points. Atalanta sit top of the group with 4 points. United have drawn one and lost one while Atalanta have lost one and won one. Atalanta will know that United and Ole are under massive pressure to win games and perform well and Atalanta should take advantage of that. Atalanta have been nearly there’s for a couple of seasons and Atalanta can win this game but they will have to play at their best. 

Young Boys vs. Villarreal

Young Boys sit 2nd with 3 points while Villarreal sit bottom of the group with 1 point. Young Boys have won one and drawn one and Villarreal have won one and lost one. Villarreal have been underperforming this season while Young Boys have done well. An interesting game and both teams have good chances of reaching the knockout stage at the moment. 

Group G

RB Salzburg vs. Wolfsburg

Salzburg sit top of the group with 4 points while Wolfsburg sit 3rd with 2 points. Salzburg have won one and drawn one while Wolfsburg have won one and lost one. This is an open group and any team can reach the next stage. 

Lille vs. Sevilla

Lille have won one and lost one while Sevilla have lost one and won one. Lille sit bottom of the group with 1 point while Sevilla sit 2nd with 2 points. An open game between the two teams. 

Group H

Zenit vs. Juventus

Zenit sit 3rd in the group with 3 points while Juventus sit top of the group with 6 points. Zenit have lost their last two games while Juventus have won their last two. Juventus have hit form after a dodgy start to the season but an away trip to Zenit is always tough. Juventus will be the favourites but Zenit could get something out of this game. 

Juventus 1 vs. 0 Chelsea Champions League Group Stage MD 2 Review

Blunt upfront.

Chelsea travelled to Turin to play Juventus for what would turn out to be a tough day at the office. Allegri selected a lineup as predicted but chose no traditional striker up front and instead played Chiesa, Bernardeschi, and Cuadrado up front. A midfield 3 that sat back also flushed out the midfield for Juventus. Tuchel returned to a 3-4-3 for this game. Mendy started in goal with a back three of Christensen, Silva, and Rudiger. Azpilicueta, and Alonso started as the wing backs with Jorginho, and Kovacic as the midfielders. Ziyech, Havertz, and Lukaku started up front. Interesting decisions from Tuchel.

The first 20 minutes saw Chelsea dominate the game in terms of possession but we didn’t manage to create any clear cut chances except one where Lukaku hit his shot straight at Szczesny. Juventus grew into the game on the counter and were it not for poor forward passes they could have had a 2 or 3 goal lead going into the 2nd half. A frustrating affair for Tuchel.

The 2nd half saw Tuchel bring on Chilwell for Alonso but we conceded right from kick-off as Chiesa scored to put Juventus ahead. Loftus-Cheek, Chalobah, and Hudson-Odoi came on to get Chelsea back into the game. Lukaku saw a header go wide. Lukaku then was played through by Barkley and he blazed his shot over the goal. Havertz then had two opportunities via headers but they both went above goal. The game ended with Juventus celebrating a good defensive performance and a win.

Chelsea Team Review

Goalkeeper

No clean sheet for Mendy. The goal was not his fault and he was largely left undisturbed for much of this game. Not much to talk about.

Defenders

Christensen had a good game at the back while Silva, and Rudiger were also pretty good. Azpilicueta and Alonso were too one dimensional in their forward play and Alonso in particular was frustrating in his decision making. Chilwell did well when he came on and he managed to peg that right hand side of Juventus. Chalobah also came on and played as a defensive midfielder and was quite decent. The conceded goal was a lapse in concentration which is unlike this defence. 

Midfielders

Jorginho and Kovacic don’t seem to be their metronomic selves. Both made several sloppy passes in the midfield and it is hard to understand why. Loftus-Cheek played well when he came on and he is nearing a start against Southampton for sure. Barkley could have got an assist if Lukaku had finished. The midfield really missed Mount for this game as the pressing and dynamism from the front was non existent.

Forwards

Ziyech and Havertz were not great and it’s a head scratcher to ask why. Ziyech was sloppy in his pressing in the first half while Havertz just looks deflated at the moment. Lukaku was quite for much of the game and we need to figure out how to play with him in the team. Play to Lukaku’s strengths. Lukaku did get two chances though and went wide with them which was not great. Hudson-Odoi came on in the 2nd half and showed initiative but he is restricted on the right hand side for sure.

Manager

Thomas Tuchel does not need to panic and Chelsea do not need to panic. It is a slump in form and we really haven’t started the season in our normal standards. Defensively we are still quite good it is up front where Tuchel needs to solve a problem that has existed since 2017. How do we start scoring goals? Homework for the German.

Chelsea sit 2nd in the group on goal difference as we face Southampton on Saturday. That is a major game now because we will want to head into the international break with a good performance over 90 minutes and a win. We need to start clicking up front. COME ON CHELSEA!!!

 

Midweek Football Review

Some major upsets!

Champions League Group Stage MD 2

Group A

Paris Saint Germain 2 vs. 0 Man City

The oil derby as the two richest clubs in Europe took on each other. PSG came out on top this time thanks to a goal from Gueye in the 8th minute and a brilliant first goal from Messi in the 74th minute to open his PSG account. City tried a lot but PSG and Donnarumma stood strong. PSG go top of the table on goal difference while City drop down to 3rd in the table.

RB Leipzig 1 vs. 2 Club Brugge

Nkunku scored in the 5th minute to give Leipzig the lead but Brugge had other plans. Vanaken equalised for Brugge in the 22nd minute and Rits grabbed the winner for Brugge in the 41st minute. Leipzig had no reply in the 2nd half and Brugge held on for all three points. Brugge move up to 2nd in the table while Leipzig remain bottom of the table with 0 points. 

Group B

AC Milan 1 vs. 2 Atletico Madrid

Leao gave Milan the lead in the 20th minute as they played their first Champions League game at the San Siro in 7 years. A red card for Kessie made matters difficult for Milan in the 29th minute. Milan then played a defensive game for much of the 90 minutes but Atletico tried and tried again and finally managed to break the defence in the 84th minute thanks to Griezmann. Suarez then scored a 97th minute penalty to seal the win for Atletico. Milan remain bottom of the the table with two unlucky defeats while Atletico sit 2nd in the group.

FC Porto 1 vs. 5 Liverpool

Salah and Mane scored in the first half to give Liverpool a 0-2 lead. Salah then added a 3rd in the 60th minute. Taremi got one back for Porto in the 74th minute but Firmino grabbed a late double to seal the win for Liverpool. Liverpool remain top of the table while Porto sit 3rd with a point.

Group C

Ajax 2 vs. 0 Besiktas

Berghuis scored in the 17th minute while Haller scored in the 43rd minute to round of a comfortable win for Ajax against Besiktas. Ajax sit top of the group on goal difference while Besiktas sit 3rd in the group with no points. 

Dormtund 1 vs. 0 Sporting Lisbon

Malen scored in the 37th minute and it was enough for Dortmund to get the win over Lisbon in this game. Dortmund sit 2nd in the group on goal difference while Lisbon sit bottom of the group with no points. 

Group D

Shakhtar Donetsk 0 vs. 0 Inter Milan

No goals in this game as the two teams shared the points. Inter sit 3rd while Shakhtar sit 4th with the two teams with that one point. 

Real Madrid 1 vs. 2 Sheriff

Yakhshiboev scored in the 25th minute to give Sheriff the lead. Real Madrid managed to equalise in the 65th minute via a penalty from Benzema. Thill though scored an 89th minute winner for Sheriff at the Bernabeu to send the Moldovan team top of the group. Real Madrid sit 2nd in the group 3 points behind Sheriff. 

Group E

Bayern Munich 5 vs. 0 Dynamo Kyiv

Lewandowski got two, and Gnabry, Sane, and Choupo-Moting added the rest as Bayern ran rampant against Kyiv. Bayern sit top of the group with 2 wins while Kyiv sit 3rd in the group with a point. 

Benfica 3 vs. 0 Barcelona

Nunez got a double and Silva got the other while Garcia was sent off for Barcelona in the 87th minute as Benfica got a historic win over the away team. Barcelona go from bad to worse and Koeman could be facing the sack at this point. Benfica sit 2nd in the group while Barcelona sit bottom of the group with 0 points.

Group F

Atalanta 1 vs. 0 Young Boys

Pessina grabbed the only goal of the game in the 68th minute as Atalanta got their first win of the group stage against Young Boys. Atalanta go top of the table while Young Boys sit 2nd in the group on goal difference. 

Man United 2 vs. 1 Villarreal

Villarreal dominated this game in the first half and could have been 2-3 goals clear if not for De Gea in the United goal. Alcacer finally got past De Gea in the 53rd minute to give Villarreal the lead. Telles grabbed an equaliser for United in the 60th minute via a brilliant effort from distance. It looked like the game was heading for a draw but like he has so often Ole was saved by another moment and that came in the form of Ronaldo grabbing the winner in the 95th minute. United sit 3rd in the group on goal difference while Villarreal sit 4th in the group with a point. 

Group G

Wolfsburg 1 vs. 1 Sevilla

Steffen scored for Wolfsburg in the 48th minute. Guilavogui was sent off for the home team in the 85th minute and Sevilla grabbed a late equaliser in the 87th minute via a penalty. Wolfsburg sit 3rd in the group on goal difference while Sevilla sit 2nd in the group on goal difference.

RB Salzburg 2 vs. 1 Lille

Adeyemi scored a penalty in each half to give Salzburg a 2-0 lead. Yilmaz got one back for Lille in the 62nd minute but Salzburg held on for the win. Salzburg go top of the group with the win while Lille sit bottom of the group with a point. 

Group H

Zenit 4 vs. 0 Malmo

Claudinho, Kuzyayev, Sutormin, and Wendel all scored as Zenit got three points against Malmo. Zenit sit 3rd in the group on goal difference while Malmo sit bottom of the group with zero points. 

Juventus vs. Chelsea Champions League Group Stage MD 2 Preview

A trip to Turin!

Chelsea travel to Turin to play Juventus in a Champions League Group Stage match on Wednesday. Juventus sit 10th in Serie A with 2 wins 2 draws and 2 losses to their name this season. The season did start poorly for Allegri and co but they have now managed to go 3 unbeaten in the league progressing steadily up the table. Juventus beat Malmo 0-3 in the last group stage match and have since drawn one and won two of their games. It is a season of transition for Allegri as he returns to once again take Juventus to the pinnacle of Italian football. Ronaldo’s absence albeit welcomed has taken them some time to get used to. 

Chelsea go into this game having lost to Man City on Saturday. It was a game in which the team was below par when it came to the standards they have set for themselves. We were second best in most departments and our pressing was no where near the required levels. The last 3-4 games have seen Chelsea struggling a bit when it comes to output on the pitch and our dominant performances that spanned 90 minutes have been left at 45 minutes. Many will say that it is the goal scoring that has been lacking and the attacking output from our forward players is no where near the levels. That might be the case but I would say that it is our lack of intensity in the press that is costing us our momentum in games. City won the game on Saturday because they wanted it more than us. We defended well and when we brought on Havertz we attacked well as well. Some finer details are missing though. 

Chelsea Team Preview

Tuchel has said that Kante is out because he tested positive. Reece James is out with injury and so are Mason Mount and Christian Pulisic. Mendy should start in goal with a back three of Christinsen, Silva, and Rudiger. Azpilicueta should start at right wing back and I would start Ben Chilwell at left wing back. Kovacic, and Jorginho should start in midfield. Loftus-Cheek has impressed and should start as the 3rd midfielder. Up top Lukaku will start and alongside him I think Havertz will be given the nod ahead of Werner for this game. It’s a good lineup with plenty of options on the bench but the fact remains that our forward players need to start clicking. 

Juventus Team Preview

For Juventus Dybala, Morata, and Ramsey are out of the game. Szczesny should start in goal for them with a back four of Cuadrado, Bonucci, De Ligt, and Sandro. Chiesa, Locatelli, Bentancur, and Bernanrdeschi should start in the midfield. With Dybala and Morata both out Kulusevski, and Moise Kean should start up top. Allegri has stuck with the 4-4-2 this season and it has paid dividends for him in recent games. The likes of Morata, and Dybala will be a big miss for them but Kean is a dangerous player and so is Kulusevski. Chiesa is an amazing winger while Locatelli is an all action midfielder. It’s a good team on paper that is just beginning to pick up pace.

Starting XI Prediction

The Oscar double comes to mind when I think of Chelsea up against Juventus. Juventus might have started slowly but they have found some momentum heading into this game while Chelsea and Tuchel will want to bounce back and go on a run after the City loss. A big game and an interesting one, COME ON CHELSEA!!!.

Midweek Football Preview

Champions League once again!

Champions League Group Stage MD 2

Group A

Paris Saint Germain vs. Man City

City travel to Paris to play the star studded PSG team. PSG sit 2nd in the group with 1 point having drawn to Brugge on MD 1. PSG have since won all three of their games in Ligue 1 but they have been far from convincing. It looks like Poch is having troubles getting Neymar, Mbappe and Messi to play together. Messi himself hasn’t scored a goal for PSG yet. City sit top of the group with 3 points and go into this game having having drawn 1 and won 2. It should be a blockbuster game but on current form Man City are the favourites to win. 

RB Leipzig vs. Club Brugge

Brugge sit 3rd with a point while Leipzig sit bottom of the table with zero points. Brugge have won 1 and drawn 1 since the last game while Leipzig have also done the same. I think Leipzig and Brugge will be fighting it out for that 3rd place finish but for now they can look to move into 2nd with a win if PSG lose. 

Group B

AC Milan vs. Atletico Madrid

Milan sit bottom of the group having lost to Liverpool two weeks ago but it was a great game of football and Milan gave a good account of themselves. Atletico sit 2nd in the group with a point having drawn to Porto. Milan have drawn one and won two since then while Atletico have drawn one won one and lost one. This is going to be a great game with Milan at the San Siro playing a home Champions League game. Atletico will be tough to break down but they look inconsistent at the moment and Milan are playing well. 

FC Porto vs. Liverpool

Liverpool sit top of the group as they travel to play Porto who sit 3rd in the group with a point. Porto have since won two games while Liverpool have won two and drawn one. Porto have looked good in recent seasons and are doing well domestically while Liverpool are unbeaten but conceded three to Brentford and are not at their best at the moment. This could be an open game and Porto could get something out of it.

Group C

Ajax vs. Besiktas

Ajax sit top of the group after having won on MD 1 while Besiktas sit 3rd in the group with 0 points. Ajax have since won 3 games and scored 17 goals in the process while conceding none. Besiktas have won one drawn one and lost one. Besiktas are a decent team on their day but the form Ajax are in they should win this game. 

Dortmund vs. Sporting Lisbon

Dortmund sit 2nd in the group having won their first game while Lisbon sit bottom of the group have lost on MD 1. Dortmund have since won one and lost one while Lisbon have won both their games. Dortmund are playing well but they are also susceptible to a loss while Lisbon have been great but in an inferior league. This will be an open game but Dortmund at home should manage the win. 

Group D

Shakhtar Donetsk vs. Inter Milan

Both teams lost their opening games and sit 3rd and 4th in the group with zero points. Shakhtar have since won all three of their games while Inter have won two and drawn one. Two teams in good form and this will be an open game between the two teams. A trip to Ukraine is always tough though.

Real Madrid vs. Sheriff

Two teams that won their opening games but Sheriff are the team that lead the group on goal goal difference. Real Madrid have won two and drawn one while Sheriff have drawn one and won two. Similar form domestically and playing well albeit in totally different leagues. Real Madrid will be favourites and should win this game but if Sheriff get something out of this it will be massive for them.

Group E

Bayern Munich vs. Dynamo Kyiv

Bayern sit top of the group and won their first game while Kyiv sit 3rd in the group with a point. Bayern have since won both their games while Kyiv have won two and lost one of their games. Kyiv can hope to get something out of this game and there is always a chance but Bayern are too good at the moment and should win this game comfortably.

Benfica vs. Barcelona

Benfica sit 2nd in the group with one point while Barcelona sit bottom of the group having lost to Bayern two weeks ago. Benfica have won both their games since that game while Barcelona have drawn two and won one. Benfica look very good at the moment and Barcelona are far from their dominant selves. This will be a good game but the result can go either way. 

Group F

Atalanta vs. Young Boys

Young Boys sit top of the group having beaten Man United in the first game and they travel to Atalanta who sit 2nd in the group with a point. Atalanta have won two and drawn one while Young Boys have won all three of their games since then. Young Boys have looked good and Atalanta are beginning to gain some form which sets this up to be a good game.

Man United vs. Villarreal

Man United sit bottom of the group having lost to Young Boys in the first game as they take on Villarreal who drew against Atalanta. United have since won one and lost two of their games while Villarreal have drawn two and won one. United and Ole are under pressure to improve the results and Villarreal beat them in the Europa League final a few months ago. An interesting game and if Villarreal win it could get very tense at Man United.

Group G

Wolfsburg vs. Sevilla

Everyone in this group sits in their place with a point with both games ending a draw on the first matchday. Wolfsburg have drawn one and lost one since the last game while Sevilla have drawn one and won two. Wolfsburg started the season well but have fell off in recent weeks while Sevilla are beginning to gain form. A good game awaits.

RB Salzburg vs. Lille

Salzburg have won all three of their games since the last match day while Lille have lost one and won two of their games. Another open game in this group of death and the result could go either way.

Group H

Zenit vs. Malmo

These two teams will probably be fighting it out for a 3rd placed finish in this group with both teams currently on zero points. Zenit have won all three of their games since then while Malmo have drawn one and won two of their games. A close tie. 

Midweek Football Review

Europe is going to be competitive this season!

Champions League Group Stage MD 1

Group A

Club Brugge 1 vs. 1 Paris Saint Germain

When the lineups came out this game instantly became the one where Neymar, Messi, and Mbappe start together for the first time. Everyone was ready for an attacking masterclass but football is a team sport and Brugge had other ideas. Herrera gave PSG the lead in the 15th minute but Vanaken equalised for Brugge in the 27th minute. Brugge actually dominated PSG for large parts of the game and could have won it on another day. For all the money and power that PSG flex they failed to understand that you need to coach players and you can’t just expect them to perform. The two teams sit 3rd and 2nd in the group with 1 point.

Man City 6 vs. 3 RB Leipzig

Nathan Ake scored in the 16th minute to give City the lead and Mukiele scored an own goal in the 28th minute to double City’s lead. Nkunku scored in the 42nd minute to bring Leipzig back into the game but Mahrez scored a free kick right before half time to make it 3-1 for City. Nkunku made it 3-2 in the 51st minute but Grealish made it 4-2 in the 56th minute. Nkunku completed his hattrick in the 73rd minute but City once again scored in the 75th minute via Cancelo to make it 5-3. Jesus sealed the deal in the 85th minute. City go top of the table in this group while Leipzig sit bottom after what was a very entertaining game. 

Group B

Atletico Madrid 0 vs. 0 FC Porto

Nothing much of note in this game except for the fact that Mbemba was sent off for Porto in the 95th minute. It was a farcical decision by the one and only Anthony Taylor. The two teams sit 2nd and 3rd in the group with 1 point. 

Liverpool 3 vs. 2 AC Milan

Trent’s shot was deflected into the goal by Tomori to give Liverpool the lead in the 9th minute. Milan survived an onslaught by Liverpool and managed to create a foothold in the game. Rebic equalised for Milan in the 42nd minute. Diaz gave Milan the lead in the 44th minute. It was a crazy first half. Salah equalised for Liverpool in the 48th minute while Henderson grabbed the winner via a brilliant volley in the 69th minute. It was a great game and it was amazing to see Milan back after 7 years in the Champions League. Milan do look like they will cause problems while Liverpool look like they are vulnerable. Liverpool sit top of the group while Milan sit bottom. 

Group C

Besiktas 1 vs. 2 Dortmund

Bellingham and Haaland scored in the 1st half to give Dortmund the lead. Montero got one goal back for Besiktas right before full time. Dortmund get an important win in a tough group as they sit 2nd while Besiktas sit 3rd. 

Sporting Lisbon 1 vs. 5 Ajax

Haller scored two goals in the first 10 minutes to give Ajax a 2-0 lead. Paulinho got one back for Lisbon in the 33rd minute, but Berghuis added a 3rd for Ajax in the 39th minute. Ajax shifted gears in the 2nd half with Haller scoring two more goals to seal the win for Ajax. Ajax go top of the group while Lisbon sit bottom. 

Group D

Sheriff 2 vs. 0 Shakhtar Donetsk

Traore scored in the 1st half while Yansane scored in the 2nd half to give Sheriff a surprise win against Shakhtar in this group. Sheriff sit top of the group while Shakhtar sit bottom. 

Inter Milan 0 vs. 1 Real Madrid

This was a close game with neither team gaining the advantage but Rodrygo scored in the 89th minute to seal the win for Madrid away from home. Inter sit 3rd in the table while Real sit 2nd. 

Group E

Barcelona 0 vs. 3 Bayern Munich

Muller scored in the 34th minute while Lewandowski scored in the 56th and 85th minute to seal the win for Bayern. This was the big replay of that thrashing from a couple of years ago and Bayern had a slightly more modest win this time out. Barcelona were no match for them. A case of how the mighty have fallen. Bayern go top of the group while Barcelona sit bottom of the group. 

Dynamo Kyiv 0 vs. 0 Benfica

This was a simple 0-0 draw with neither team able to break down the other’s defence. Kyiv and Benfica sit 3rd and 2nd with 1 point.

Group F

Young Boys 2 vs. 1 Man United

Ronaldo scored in the 13th minute to give United the lead as it looked like it would be a routine win. Contrary to the scoreline though Young Boys had been the better team and fortune went their way when Wan-Bissaka was sent off for United in the 35th minute. Ole rang the changes with Varane coming on for Sancho and the defence shifting to a back three. Little did Ole know that it isn’t as simple as switching formations but you actually have to have coached your players to play in it. Ngamaleu equalised for Young Boys in the 66th minute and Siebatcheu scored the winner in the 95th minute to get three massive points for the Swiss side. Young Boys sit top of the group and United sit bottom. 

Villarreal 2 vs. 2 Atalanta

Freuler scored in the 6th minute to give Atalanta the lead. Trigueros equalised for Villarreal in the 39th minute. Groeneveld gave Villarreal the lead in the 73rd minute but Gosens equalised for Atalanta in the 83rd minute. Coquelin was sent off for Villarreal in the 84th minute. This game was crazy but both teams shared a point. 

Group G

Sevilla 1 vs. 1 RB Salzburg

Sucic scored a penalty in the 21st minute to give Salzburg the lead. Rakitic scored a penalty in the 42nd minute to equalise for Sevilla. En-Nesyri was sent off for Sevilla in the 50th minute. The game ended in a draw but there were four penalties in total with 2 going in and 2 missing. Some entertaining decisions but neither team got the win. 

Lille 0 vs. 0 Wolfsburg

Neither team could get the win in this game although Lille did dominate it for large parts having 17 shots compared to Wolfsburg’s 2. Brooks was sent off for Wolfsburg in the 62nd minute. All the teams in this group sit level on points with 1. 

Group H

Malmo 0 vs. 3 Juventus

Sandro, Dybala, and Morata scored in the first half to get a comprehensive win for Juventus against Malmo. Juventus go top of the group while Malmo sit bottom. 

Chelsea 1 vs. 0 Zenit Champions League Group Stage MD 1 Review

Lukaku proving his worth!

Chelsea took on Zenit St. Petersburg for MD 1 of the Champions League group stage at Stamford Bridge. It was a great night with the stadium packed and the likes of Mendy, Kante, Jorginho, and Tuchel given their UEFA awards. Zenit turned up to the Bridge in top form being unbeaten in their last 18 games a run that stretches back 6 months. Zenit usually play a 4-4-2 but they went even more defensive for this game and switched to a 5-4-1. Key players like Claudinho, Azmoun, Malcolm, Santos, Barrios, and Rakitskiy were just some of the players on show for the Russians. Tuchel also made a few changes, Mendy remained in goal with Azpilicueta, Christensen, and Rudiger in defence. Reece and Alonso started as the wing backs with Kovacic and Jorginho in the midfield. Mount and Ziyech started behind Lukaku. 

On paper it was a good lineup but the first 45 were quite end to end. The chances on goal were few and far between mainly due to Chelsea lacking the chemistry up front. Lukaku was the focal point up front but several sloppy passes and mistimed runs from Mount and Ziyech meant that we weren’t able to build any proper move. Zenit did well in defence though with Santos, and Rakitskiy staying touch tight to Lukaku. Zenit had a few chances in the first half but the defence and Mendy were more than a match.

The 2nd half saw Chelsea raise the tempo but it meant that we left space in behind for Zenit to also have a few chances. There were still sloppy passes in the final 3rd but Chelsea were able to create more chances in and around the box with Reece and Ziyech having an impact. Rudiger made some key tackles and one that was last ditch which stopped Azmoun from taking a shot. The goal came in the 69th minute as Azpilicueta stepped up and played a brilliant cross into the box. Lukaku managed to make space and rose highest to head the ball in and get the goal. The goal gave Chelsea a boost and we managed to create more chances. Towards the end Lukaku came close with a great solo run but Santos made a great tackle in the end. A tough game but Chelsea yet again managed to win while not being the best. 

Chelsea Team Review

Goalkeeper

Mendy made his 50th appearance for Chelsea and capped it off with another clean sheet. 29 clean sheets in 50 appearances is a crazy stat and Mendy has been well worth it. This game saw him make a couple of key saves again and be dominant in his box once again. A great goalkeeper.

Defenders

Azpilicueta, Christensen, and Rudiger did brilliantly once again. Azpilicueta provided the key assist for the goal, Christensen was colossal in the centre while Rudiger made several key tackles that kept Chelsea in the game. Reece James had a good game as well and provided a threat going forward and was solid defensively. Alonso had a good game as well but he does look a bit tired. Silva came on late in the game to see out the result while Chilwell also got his first minutes since the Champions League final which was great to see. More to come from him. A clean sheet and 3 points.

Midfielders

Kovacic and Jorginho were their usual selves in this game. Kovacic was all over the midfield avoiding the press and again showing that he has improved his passing range. Some brilliant balls were played into Lukaku and the forward players by the Croat. Jorginho kept the tempo going and did what he does best. Mount did not have the best game and looked sloppy in possession. Mason did get better towards the end of the game but that was well below his standard, early days though. Ruben came on late in the game for a cameo appearance which was good to see. 

Forwards

Ziyech similar to Mount was sloppy in the first half but did slightly better in the 2nd. Havertz did come on for him for the final 30 minutes but Kai also looked like he struggle to get into the groove of things. Lukaku did what Lukaku does. The striker had a good battle with the likes of Santos in the Zenit defence but when a proper chance came Lukaku rose highest to give Chelsea the win. A world class strikers performance. 

Manager

Thomas Tuchel made the changes and got a win. Like Villa he will not like the manner in which Chelsea played the first half and will want the players to create more but the win is what matters in these early stages of the season. A good start to the campaign.

Chelsea begin the CL campaign with a win and sit 2nd in the group behind Juventus. It wasn’t the best performance but Zenit are no pushovers and we ended their unbeaten run. Next up is a trip to local rivals Tottenham for what is a big derby game on Sunday in the Premier League. COME ON CHELSEA!!!

Chelsea vs. Zenit Champions League Group Stage MD 1 Preview

The Champions League campaign begins!

The holders of the Champions League, Chelsea welcome Zenit to Stamford Bridge for Matchday 1 of the group stage. Chelsea find themselves in Group H with Juventus, Malmo and of course Zenit. It’s not the toughest of groups but if a team is in the Champions League they deserve to be there so one always needs to be at their best. Zenit find themselves top of the Russian League having won 5 and drawn 2. Zenit are an experienced European team and have been regulars in Europe for several seasons now. 

Chelsea go into this game having won 3-0 against Villa at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. The team was not at their best but we still managed to get the job done. Pre-match Tuchel said that last season’s victory seems like a distant memory now and the squad are fully focused on the season ahead. Tuchel also stated that he is not bothered by labels etc all they will do is take it game by game. There was a really weird question asked about whether Tuchel needed to get through the group stage and then win it to fully deserve to win the Champions League. It was an inane question and while Tuchel was respectful in his reply, the answer is Tuchel does not need to prove anyone wrong. Tuchel was also asked about Chilwell to which he replied that the left back just needed to refresh and rewire himself after a difficult summer. Tuchel stated that Chilwell deserved to start some games in the Euro’s but was not given a chance for whatever reason and that impacted his mentality. Now though Chilly is back and ready to fight it out for the season ahead. 

Chelsea Team Preview

I do expect Tuchel to rotate some players but we did rotate for Palace as well so we should have more of a first team play this game. Kepa should come in to give Mendy a rest. I think Chalobah will continue with Christensen coming in and Azpilicueta involved as well. Rudiger should get a rest. Chilwell and James should come in as the wing backs while Kovacic, and Saul continue in the middle. I know Saul had a poor debut but Zenit should offer a slightly better chance to settle in. Jorginho could start though. Mount, and Werner should start up top with Lukaku. Werner and Lukaku should a glimpse of how they can work together and I really want to see the two start. Kante could be back for Spurs, but Pulisic is still out injured. The likes of Sarr, RLC, and Barkley should be in the squad as well and with 5 subs they could get some minutes. A top team and a game at home to get the crowd excited. 

Zenit Team Preview

Zenit played a 4-4-2 and should keep to that formation. There are some recognisable names with Lovren in defence, Malcolm, Wendel, Azmoun, and of course Dzyuba. I think the pace that Malcolm, Wendel, Claudinho, and Azmoun offer will be key as Zenit look to play on the counter. Dzyuba could start instead of Claudinho to give Zenit an out ball and a focal point up front but I think they will rely on the pace. There are some tricky players that could cause problems if Chelsea are not on it. 

Starting XI Prediction

The bid to retain the Champions League begins tonight and Stamford Bridge will be rocking on a Champions League night once again. I think Lukaku and Werner if they start could cause havoc. COME ON CHELSEA!!!

Midweek Football Preview

The Champions!

Champions League Group Stage

Group A

Club Brugge vs. Paris Saint Germain

Club Brugge find themselves in a tough group so finishing in the top three is a tough ask. Brugge have played well against big teams in the Champions League previously so there is always room for an upset. Brugge sit top of the the Belgian League having played 7 won 4 drawn 2 and lost 1. PSG having bought Messi, Ramos, and the rest this summer have to be favourites for the Champions League this season. The question really is if not now then when? PSG have won all 5 of their league games and sit top of Ligue 1. This should be a straight forward win for the Parisiens but Brugge are capable of an upset. 

Man City vs. RB Leipzig

City begin their Champions League campaign with a visit by RB Leipzig. City and Pep reached the final last season and fell short as Chelsea beat them in Lisbon. For City the CL trophy is what has evaded them and they will want to replicate that run to the final. Grealish will start his first CL game in his career and City sit 4th in the Premier League having won 3 and lost 1. Leipzig have had a tough start to the season having won 1 and lost 3 as they sit 12th in the Bundesliga. Marsch has not hit the ground running with Nagelsmann having left to Bayern. Leipzig will find it tough to beat City at home. 

Group B

Atletico Madrid vs. FC Porto

This group is one of the tougher groups in the Champions League this season. Atletico on paper should be one of the favourites to go through though. Atletico have brought back Griezmann from Barcelona and Simeone will once again be ready to defend his way to the latter stages. Atletico sit 3rd in La Liga having won 3 and drawn 1. Porto did quite well last season reaching the quarter-finals but were knocked out by eventual winners Chelsea. Porto sit 3rd in Portugal having won 3 and drawn 2. A tough game. 

Liverpool vs. AC Milan

Liverpool begin their CL campaign at Anfield with the fans back for a historic guest. Liverpool have had a good start to the season but failed to make any signings and any injuries will cause issues with little squad depth. 3 wins and a draw to start the season for Klopp as they sit 3rd in the league. Milan are back in the Champions League after a few seasons out of it. They have been busy in the transfer market but are a good team and most importantly have Ibrahimovic back for this game. Milan sit 2nd in Serie A having won all three of their games. This is a historic fixture that decided two finals in previous years. It should be a fiery and entertaining game. 

Group C

Besiktas vs. Dortmund

An evenly matched group with four teams that all stand a good chance of going through. Besiktas have bought some good players with Batshuayi and Pjanic coming in. Besiktas sit top of the Turkish League with 3 wins and a draw. Dortmund have started the season well on paper under Marco Rose with 3 wins and a loss. Dortmund have scored 13 goals this season but they have conceded 9 goals as well. Dortmund have the better quality but Besiktas at home will be no pushovers. 

Sporting Lisbon vs. Ajax

Sporting are back in the Champions League this season but find themselves in a tough group but one which they also stand a chance of going through in. Lisbon sit 2nd in the Portuguese league having won 3 and drawn 2. Ajax sit 2nd in the Eredivisie having won 3 and drawn 1. The Dutch team do look back to their best and going through this group will require them to be at their best. 

Group D

Sheriff vs. Shakhtar Donetsk

The Moldovan team Sheriff Tiraspol are making their debut in the Champions League as they take on a CL regular in Shakhtar. Sheriff sit 4th in their league having won 4 and lost 1. Look the group Sheriff are in if they can manage a point in any of these games it would be a big moment for them. Shakhtar are probably 3rd favourites in this group as they look to upset the odds. Shakhtar have won 5 drawn 1 and lost 1 this season. Shakhtar should win this game.

Inter Milan vs. Real Madrid

Inter were champions of Serie A last season but it has been a summer of change for them. Conte and Lukaku both left the club being replaced by Inzaghi and Dzeko. Inter sit 4th in Serie A having won 2 and drawn 1. Inter should get through the group and have plenty of quality but Shakhtar will have the same mindset. Real are back playing at the Bernabeu and it’s time for them to get back on track. No big signings this summer except for Camavinga but Ancelotti is back at the helm. Real sit top of La Liga with 3 wins and a draw and as with any Ancelotti side the goals are flowing in. Real will expect to reach the latter stages this season. 

Group E

Barcelona vs. Bayern Munich

The two teams that are the favourites to go through from this group. This is also the first time these two face each other after Bayern thrashed Barcelona two seasons ago. Barcelona now are a team without Griezmann, and most importantly a team without Messi. Barcelona do have Depay who has been playing very well. Bayern are at their usual best this season and raring to go. Barcelona sit 7th in La Liga with 2 wins and a draw and a game in hand. Bayern sit 2nd in their group having won 3 and drawn 1. It should be a fun game but Bayern should beat Barcelona. 

Dynamo Kyiv vs. Benfica

Kyiv and Benfica are probably going to be fighting it out for 3rd in this group but Barcelona are not at their dominant best and they could sneak in a 2nd place finish. Kyiv sit top of the Ukrainian League having won 6 and drawn 1. Benfica have had a perfect start to their season as they sit top of their league having won all 5 games. This should be an open game. 

Group F

Young Boys vs. Man United

Young Boys have a tough start to their campaign with group favourites United visiting them. Young Boys sit 4th in the Swiss league having won 2 drawn 2 and lost 1. Man United sit top of the Premier League having won 3 and drawn 1. Let’s face it United should win this group and and every game with Ronaldo back in their team. If Young Boys can get a point or more it would be a massive upset.

Villarreal vs. Atalanta

The two teams who could challenge United for the top spot but on paper are probably fighting it out for 2nd and 3rd. Villarreal are the Europa League champions but have had a lacklustre start to their season as they sit 11th in La Liga with three draws and a game in hand. Atalanta are in a similar situation as they sit 10th in Serie A having won 1 drawn 1 and lost 1. This should be an open game. 

Group G

Sevilla vs. RB Salzburg

Group G is another tough group with evenly matched teams. Sevilla sit 6th in La Liga with 2 wins and a draw and a game in hand. Salzburg sit top of the Austrian Ligue having won all 7 of their games. On paper Sevilla are the favourites but Salzburg are in great form and should cause the La Liga side problems.

Lille vs. Wolfsburg

French champions Lille find themselves in a tough group and go into it without their manager from last season Galtier. Lille without Galtier have found life tough as they sit 12th in Ligue 1 with 1 win 2 draws and 2 losses. Wolfsburg sit top of the Bundesliga having won all 4 of their games so far. Wolfsburg are the team in better form and should cause Lille problems in this game. 

Group H

Malmo vs. Juventus

Malmo find themselves in a tough group and probably will be fighting it out with Zenit for that 3rd placed finish. Malmo sit 3rd in the Swedish league having won 10 drawn 4 and lost 4. Juventus have not started the season well under Allegri and with Ronaldo gone. They find themselves 16th in Serie A having drawn 1 and lost 2. Juventus on paper should still be too much for Malmo but Malmo are at home and are in better form. An upset could be on the cards.