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Preview: Juventus vs. Chelsea

Preview: Juventus vs. Chelsea
© PA Photos
Sports Mole previews the crucial Champions League fixture between holders Chelsea and Italian outfit Juventus.

Just one point separates group leaders Chelsea and their hosts tomorrow night Juventus heading into this Champions League encounter.

As a result, the loser of this tie is likely to face elimination from the competition at the group stages with just one more match remaining.

Any success that Juve are able to achieve will have to be done without the services of the striker Mirko Vucinic, who is struggling with a knee problem.

However, Andrea Pirlo is expected to return to their starting lineup following a domestic suspension. Pirlo's inclusion is likely to see former Manchester United youngster Paul Pogba drop down to the bench.

Chelsea's major selection dilemma surrounds the centre-forward position. Head coach Roberto Di Matteo has hinted that he is considering dropping Fernando Torres, with Daniel Sturridge tipped to benefit.

Captain John Terry and Frank Lampard are ruled out of the clash through injury though.

Juve have won 12 of their last 20 meetings against English opposition, although they have only emerged victorious from just one of the previous six.

Meanwhile, the Blues have only won once from eight visits to Italy.

Recent form

Juventus: DWWLW

Chelsea: LDWDW

Possible starting lineups:

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Isla; Giovinco; Quagliarella

Chelsea: Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Luiz, Cole; Mikel, Ramires, Mata, Oscar, Hazard; Sturridge

Sports Mole says: 1-1


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Liam Apicella
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Fernando Torres in action for Chelsea
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