Champions League: Round of 16 ties ranked
By Orri Benatar
Chelsea’s nightmare has just begun. With Barcelona, it’s only going to get worse for the English club.
These two giants of the sport – have a deep Champions League history. Chelsea v Barcelona, has brought us some of the most iconic moments, in the history of the competition.
Iniesta’s goal at The Bridge in 2009, Torres’ winner in the semis of 2012. So many great games. This year might be a little different though.
Barcelona has surprised everyone with just one loss in all competitions. Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, have been just fine without Neymar. The Catalans are dominating Spain, and will look to conquer Europe once again.
For Chelsea, this is a chance for Antonio Conte to win back the hearts of the fans. Conte is on a thin string with the Blues after ghastly losses to, Bournemouth and Watford, in the EPL.
The only way Chelsea can come close to winning is moving Eden Hazard back to left wing. Hazard cannot and should not, play up front in a false nine. Olivier Giroud should start at striker, until Alvaro Morata comes back healthy.
It’s been a rough winter for Conte. Chelsea is a team of inconsistency. They are off-form in the league, but they can return to glory in the Champions League.
They won the competition in 2012 with an interim manager. It’s a longshot this season – with Barcelona coming to London.
Leg 1 – Tuesday 2/20 – 2:45 pm EST – Stamford Bridge
Leg 2 – Wednesday 3/14 – 3:45 pm EST – Camp Nou