Champions League
2018-02-20 - Chelsea vs FC Barcelona
A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser
Football: UEFA Champions League
20th February 2018 – Kickoff 19:45
Introduction:
Interestingly Chelsea have met Barcelona at least 10 times in the last 13 years in this competition. Chelsea had more success with three wins, five draws and lost two times.
Chelsea
The Blues have been unbeaten in their last seven head to head with Barcelona. In 2009, Barcelona advanced further due to goals scored away, while in 2012 Chelsea reached the final after winning 1-0 away and they drew 2-2 at the Nou Camp. Since then Chelsea had less success in the Champions League then Barcelona. They are currently only fourth in the Premier League standings.
After two conescutive defeats, Chelsea did beat West Bromwich by 3-0 at home and last weekend they did managed to beat second division side Hull 4-0 in the FA Cup when they played with a mixed team. Since then several of thir players have recovered so now we are likely to see the likes of defender Alonso and striker Morata, while stopper Luiz and midfielders Bakayoko and Barkley will start from the bench.
FC Barcelona
Since the start of the season, Barcelona have been totally dominant in La LIga and looks set to win the La Liga away from Real Madrid. They have seven points more at the top then second placed Atletico Madrid. The gap was more three rounds ago, but since Barcelona drew with Espanyol and Getafe, and last weekend they beat Eibar, while at the same time Atletico Madrid has been winning all their games.
Barcelona has reached the final of the Spanish Cup after beating Valencia. Playing in too many competitions has taken its toll on them and that is why manager Valverde often rotates and experimented with their team. Now they should bring their strongest side to Stamford Bridge but they will be without the likes of stopper Vermaelen as he is out injured, while defender Semedo cannot play due to suspension. Other then that, midfielder Coutinho is cup tied having played with Liverpool in the same competition.
Past Meetings:
Chelsea are unbeaten in their last three meetings at home with Barcelona and have only lost once in their last six games at home with the Spanish side.
The Pick:
Take Chelsea and accept the 1/2 ball Asian Handicap.
The Statistics :
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The Pick :
Chelsea 1-1 Barcelona
