Premier League giants Chelsea will have a tough test at Stamford Bridge, as they look to advance to the quarter-final of the UEFA Champions League by seeing off a stern Atletico Madrid side in the round of 16 second leg on Thursday, March 18.
With a one-goal lead from the away leg, thanks to Olivier Giroud’s 68th-minute winner, the Blues will be optimistic about their chances of sealing a place in the next round on Thursday. And their unbeaten record under manager Thomas Tuchel further strengthens that belief.
Chelsea have returned unscathed from away trips to Manchester United, Liverpool and Everton without conceding a goal. Although Diego Simeone’s men pose a different challenge, the English side remains the favourite.
On the other hand, La Liga’s capital giants have had a lean phase after a solid start to their domestic league, which has affected their European ambitions. Atletico Madrid have won just twice in their last seven La Liga matches and are on the verge of UCL elimination as well.
Atletico Madrid have lost as many as three UCL matches against Chelsea so far - their joint-most number of defeats against an opponent along with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. Watch Chelsea vs Atletico Madrid live!
Chelsea team news
What makes this tie an uphill task for Chelsea is their injury concerns. Tuchel will be thin in his midfield, with Jorginho and Mason Mount suspended for the second leg due to the accumulation of yellow cards.
Apart from them, striker Tammy Abraham and defensive general Thiago Silva remain doubtful as they struggle to recover from their injuries.
Atletico Madrid team news
On the other hand, Atletico Madrid remain clear of injuries and suspensions and will have a full-strength squad for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League.
Where to watch Chelsea vs Atletico Madrid live in India?
The Chelsea vs Atletico Madrid UEFA Champions League match will be telecast live at 1:30 AM IST on Sony TEN 2 SD and HD TV channels in India, on Thursday, February 18.
Live streaming of Chelsea vs Atletico Madrid will be on SonyLIV along with other UCL fixtures.
SportsAdda will bring you Chelsea vs Atletico Madrid live scores.
For Chelsea vs Atletico Madrid football odds and betting, visit Sportsbet.io and look under Top Events - International Clubs - UEFA Champions League.
Feature Image Courtesy: AFP/ Gabriel Bouys