CHAMPIONS LEAGUE BETTING PICK - CHELSEA F.C V APOEL NICOSIA

Champions League

2009-12-08 - Chelsea F.C vs Apoel Nicosia

A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser

Analysis:

Chelsea starts this match knowing that they have already guaranteed top spot and F.C Porto will finish second in the group. But for Apoel, they could still qualify for the Europa League.

That can only be possible if Atletico Madrid who are currently in third lose against Porto, and Apoel gets a draw here for them to finish in third spot.

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti insists he will not be merely playing a reserve side against Apoel despite his side already qualified. Carlo Ancelotti insisted that they have a good record at home to preserve and that they have to respect the other teams because Apoel and Atletico are still involved in the group and can still finish third.

Apoel boss Ivan Jovanovic has stated that his team will do their best as they have made progress over the last six months and gained a lot of experience.

As for the team news, despite a knee injury, Captain John Terry will still start for the home side. Ashley Cole and Michael Ballack are also doubtful but they will undergo a late fitness test to determine their fitness.

The likes of Salomon Kalou, Alex and Daniel Sturridge are definitely out, while Petr Cech could also be rested by Ancelotti, allowing Hilario to play. Michael Essien could be rested as well as he is just one booking short of being suspended.

The visitors have up to five players injured ahead of this clash. Adrian Sikora, Boban Grncarov and Altin Haxhi are missing, and Nectarios Alexandrou and Christos Kontis are also major doubts and will undergo late fitness tests before a decision is made if they can start the game.

Take Chelsea and give the 1 1/2 ball away.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser

The Statistics :

The Pick :

BEST BETTING TIP :

Take Chelsea to win here.