Football, UEFA Champion's League, Chelsea vs. FC Porto

FC Porto travel to England again this year for what is sure to be the most entertaining tie of the round. Porto have an impressive history playing against English clubs. Last year Porto came to the Field of Dreams to play Manchester United in the knockout stages of Champion's League play. They finished with a 2-2 draw after taking a commanding lead. Porto had come to Manchester a few years before and beaten the Red Devils at Old Trafford while Mourinho was at the helm. However, in the two times that Chelsea have met with the Portuguese side (2004 & 2007) they easily won the tie.

FC Porto are off to a great start again this year after winning silverware in their domestic league for 2009/2009. They have not lost in their last 5 games, drawing only one of those. A 2-0 defeat of Olympique Lyon during their pre-season tour is the highlight of their recent matches. They should come out to this game with optimism and striker Hulk looking to do some damage.

Chelsea have had a comparable amount of success in their domestic season so far. They have won each of the 5 Premier League matches so far. Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba will likely start this match given their impeccable performance at the start of the season. Not a match has gone by without one or the both of the Chelsea strikers netting a goal. Chelsea are hot favorites to win the Premiership this season and come into this home leg with a definite upper hand.

Despite Porto's recent success against English clubs, Chelsea are simply too good and in too good of form. I'll pick Chelsea to win this one.

Chelsea FC vs. FC Porto
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
20:45 CET

Tip: Chelsea -1
Best Odds: Bet365 @ 1.68

Archive