Chelsea host Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie in the Champions League knowing that an away goal in the French Capital three weeks back puts them in pole position to advance to the quarter finals.
After a tactically fought 1-1 draw in the first leg in which the PSG defenders never let danger man Eden Hazard off their sight, Jose Mourinho will know that the French side has enough quality about them to silence Stamford Bridge.
Here’s how the runaway Premier League leaders are expected to line up tonight.
Goalkeeper – Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian shot-stopper was in fine form in Paris before an error in judgement from Gary Cahill left Courtois with no chance from a close range Cavani header. He’ll be looking to continue his good run with a clean sheet against the side from Paris.
Defence – Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta.
Stands tall at right back and pops up with crucial goals from time to time, Branislav Ivanovic is an asset to the Blues. Gary Cahill has had his fair share of critics this season, but a run of improved performances should see him take his place alongside the experienced John Terry. Cesar Azpilicueta will need to improve on his first leg display but remains the first choice left back.
Midfield – Matic, Ramires, Willian, Fabregas, Hazard.
Ramires lends Chelsea a cutting edge in midfield and allows the attacking talents of Cesc Fabregas to come to the fore in an advanced position. Nemanja Matic suffered a bizarre injury in the Capital One Cup final but should be back in this make-or-break fixture.
Eden Hazard was subdued in the first leg in Paris, compared to his usual high-intensity standards. Jose Mourinho would be hoping for a better performance from his main man. Willian is all-energy down the right hand side, but can do much better in an attacking sense.
Striker – Diego Costa
A striker defenders simply don’t look forward to playing against. Diego Costa’s tendency of going shoulder to shoulder with the best defenders in the business and his persistence makes him a top draw striker. Not to mention his prowess in front of goal.