Though a mid-game injury to Frank Lampard certainly didn't help matters, Chelsea were a bit stunned by Shakhtar Donetsk when the two teams last met. It appeared that the Blues had no idea how to deal with a team who play at as fast of a pace as Shakhtar, as Fernandino and Willian regularly went by Chelsea defenders as if they were standing still.
Chelsea vs. Shakhtar Donetsk, 2012 UEFA Champions League: Preview and TV schedule
Following their loss in Ukraine during the last round, Chelsea need to avoid a loss at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.
Chelsea are still in second place in Group A, ahead of Juventus, but they’re going to be in some serious trouble if they fail to win on Wednesday. They would still control their own destiny in the event of a loss, but would need to win both of their next two games -- including one in Turin -- to advance to the knockout stage if they lose to Shakhtar again. The visitors will be happy to come away from Stamford Bridge with a point, as it will put them in a position to clinch qualification regardless of other results with just four more points.
Chelsea injuries and suspensions
Out: Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard. In doubt: Juan Mata, David Luiz.
Shakhtar Donetsk injuries and suspensions
None.
Shakhtar continue to dodge the injury bug like no other, yet more evidence to support the theory that they are actually the Monstars. Chelsea are still without Lampard, who sustained his injury against Shakhtar, and Ryan Bertrand should fill in for Ashley Cole. Mata and Luiz face late fitness tests.
Match date/time: Wednesday, 7:45 p.m. local, 2:45 p.m. ET
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London, England
TV: FOX Soccer Plus (U.S.), Sky Sports 3 (U.K.), Sportsnet World (Canada), Kanal 5 (Ukraine)
Online: FOX Soccer 2 Go (U.S.)
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