Chelsea must make good on a 1-0 aggregate lead when they host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) last 16 this evening.
The Blues left the relocated first leg in Bucharest with a hard-fought away-goal advantage some three weeks ago to put one foot into the quarterfinals, and have maintained an unbeaten run under Thomas Tuchel since the victory.
Atleti’s ultra defensive tactics didn’t pay off as planned, but Diego Simeone’s side have since bounced back and also gone unbeaten in the games since the loss. The onus is now on them to head to London and bring it to Chelsea, who have become galvanised under Tuchel.
The Blues will be without important duo Mason Mount and Jorginho for the tie, with both players suspended having started the first leg and being booked therein.
Tuchel has already confirmed that Mateo Kovacic will start the second leg, while Thiago Silva was fit enough for a place on the bench at the weekend and could also return to the lineup. Otherwise, Chelsea have a full squad to choose from.
On their own, Atletico have a fully fit squad to choose from in their quest for a comeback and will need to use that to bring a more attacking game to Stamford Bridge.
Marcos Llorente has thrived in a more forward role this season. The Spaniard has managed nine goals and eight assists in La Liga and Tuchel has admitted he is aware of the threat he brings.
As devastating as Los Rojiblancos can be when at their best, Chelsea have looked seriously impressive since the arrival of Tuchel.
