Chelsea are unlikely to have a problem recording their second consecutive Champions League victory on Tuesday, as they host one of the competition’s minnows, Maribor, at Stamford Bridge. The Blues head into the match on the back of a narrow victory over Sporting Lisbon, though one that was sufficient to move them two points clear at the top of Group G.
Chelsea vs. NK Maribor, 2014 UEFA Champions League: Team news and game preview
Chelsea should comfortably see off Maribor at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.
Maribor have actually started their Champions League campaign surprisingly well, with the Slovenian side having managed 1-1 draws against both Schalke and Sporting Lisbon. However, Chelsea -- even without their injured star striker Diego Costa -- are in a different league altogether, and anything other than a win for José Mourinho's side would be a big upset.
Key player - Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
In the absence of the injured Diego Costa, the best player on the field in this match will be Chelsea's Belgian wonder Eden Hazard, who has also started the season in some terrific form. Capable of dribbling past defenders and creating goalscoring chances at just about the drop of a hat, Maribor will probably find it impossible to keep him quiet. If Hazard's on a good day, Chelsea will cruse to victory
Key matchup - Jasmin Handanović vs. a barrage of Chelsea shots
Jasmin Handanović may be rather less famous than his cousin Samir, but his performances in the Champions League so far have been crucial in helping Maribor to their impressive draws against Schalke and Sporting Lisbon. If they want to repeat the feat again at Stamford Bridge, the veteran shot-stopper will no doubt have to put in another fine performance.
Chelsea injuries and suspensions
Out: Ramires (groin), John Obi Mikel (foot), André Schürrle (illness), Diego Costa (hamstring) In doubt: None.
Maribor injuries and suspensions
Out: None. In doubt: None.
Chelsea will still be without injured midfielders Ramires and John Obi Mikel, while illness and injury will also rule out André Schürrle and Diego Costa. Maribor, on the other hand, should have a clean bill of health.
Match Date/Time: Tuesday, 7:45 p.m. local, 2:45 p.m. ET
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London, England
TV: Fox Sports 2, Fox Soccer Plus, Directv (U.S.), ITV 1 (U.K.)
Online: Fox Soccer 2Go, Fox Sports Go (U.S.), Sportsnet World Now (Canada), ITV Player (U.K.)
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