The focus turns to an important evening in the Champions League. Two intriguing matches take center stage in the schedule, with sides competing for important standings in the group stage.
A Question Mark Over Chelsea
Which iteration of the London club will we see in Bergamo? Their previous Champions League outing was a statement, an emphatic 3-0 victory over the Catalan giants which was a peak in Enzo Maresca's tenure. Yet, form has been elusive afterwards. A solid draw with Arsenal was followed by a loss away to Leeds United, followed by a dour draw at Bournemouth has left them with momentum sapped.
They face a dangerous Atalanta that sits tied in the standings with them. La Dea endured a heavy loss in their first game in Paris yet have gone undefeated on the continent ever since, defying somewhat mid-table results in Serie A.
A Must-Win for Tottenham
Similar to their rivals, Ange Postecoglou's side have been notoriously inconsistent. A 5-3 defeat away to PSG, sandwiched between painful losses to Arsenal and Fulham, had increased scrutiny on boss the Danish coach. However, the last two league results – a win and a draw from six – have offered a measure of calm.
Tonight, they host Czech opponents still searching for their first victory in the competition. This is exactly the type of match which Spurs need to secure three points from for any hopes to climb towards the knockout places, particularly given upcoming challenges versus Borussia Dortmund and Frankfurt still to come.
The Evening's Other Games
The action is not limited to England and Italy. One key encounter, the Blaugrana will look to respond from their defeat when they host the German side. At the same time, high-flying PSV will provide a stern test for the defence of Diego Simeone's team. Rounding out the night, Monaco entertains the Turkish champions in a match which promises to be a high-scoring affair. Every game kick off this evening.
A pivotal night in the group stage is upon us, with teams fighting to secure their path into the latter stages.
