Since the last time these two powerhouses met both squads have lost their advantage in running away with their respective domestic titles.
Chelsea has fallen 2 points below Manchester United while Inter Milan are now only 2 points ahead of AC Milan and 6 ahead of AS Roma. However, it is Internazionale who had the worst of it this past weekend. A 3-1 defeat at the hands of Catania surprised Mourinho's Blues and the Italian giants will be scrapping for confidence as they travel to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea on the other hand put forth a convincing effort against city rivals West Ham United. A Didier
Drogba brace helped the Blues win the match in spectacular fashion, finishing 4-1. Carlo
Ancelotti lost a second goalkeeper when Hilario was injured and stand-in keeper Turnbull played on Saturday against West Ham. He will, however, have the benefit of a fit Yuri Zhirkov who will likely take the place of Ferreira in the back.
After throwing away an 11 point lead and what looked like another certain Scudetto, Mourinho will need to impress in the Champions League to keep the fans and owners happy.
Milito is as potent as ever and paired with Samuel
Eto'o can be a formidable offensive front. Wesley Sneijder picked up a knock against Catania and may miss this match in what could make a small difference in the midfield. To give his players a rest, Mourinho did not fly to London early to take advantage of the usual on-site training session for away games. The players will be more rested as a result and will be ready to face a tough opponent at Stamford Bridge.
Mourinho returns to his old stadium and
Ancelotti will once again face his old rival. Carlo Ancelotti did not seem very pleased during the last match and his face looked anything but optimistic, even after Chelsea equalized. The Blues should be in better spirits after their stomping of West Ham, but it is unclear whether they will have the class to overturn the 1 goal deficit that Inter currently have on them. With a 3rd string keeper in, the Blues will need their defense to remain sharp. However, Inter are the last Italian side remaining in the Champions League and
Jose Mourinho is an excellent manager. He will know the grounds and know the team he is facing. Expect Inter to qualify.
Chelsea FC vs Internazionale Milan
Tuesday March 16. 2010
Kickoff: 8:45 PM (CET)
Venue: Stamford Bridge (London)
Tip: Inter +1 (Asian Handicap)
Best Odds: 1.83 @ Bet365
