WINNING against Leeds was a small step in the right direction for Chelsea.
But victory over Borussia Dortmund would feel like an enormous leap for Graham Potter and his beleaguered Blues.
Chelsea welcome Jude Bellingham and Dortmund to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday with a 1-0 deficit to overturn from the first leg.
In a boost to Potter and Co, Karim Adeyemi, the scorer in Dortmund, remains an injury doubt for the game.
The Blues will also be buoyed by Wesley Fofana’s 53rd minute winner on Saturday that sealed a first three points since January.
However, goals remain a problem.
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Fofana’s effort was just the SEVENTH time the Blues have netted in all competitions since November 6.
Dortmund on the other hand are a winning machine.
Edin Terzic’s side have won 11 out of 11 games in 2023, scoring 30 goals in the process.
Stopping Dortmund won’t be easy, but the green shoots from Saturday’s win over Leeds will give the Blues belief of progressing to the Champions League quarter-finals.
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The Blues were unlucky not to score at least once in Dortmund last month.
And they know that, realistically, their only chance of playing in the competition next season will be winning it this campaign.
However, the need to go out on the front foot could leave Potter’s side vulnerable on the counter-attack, and an early Dortmund goal would leave them with a mountain to climb.
What is their form like?
Chelsea’s win over Leeds was just a third victory in 16 games.
On the other hand Borussia Dortmund have been faultless in 2023, winning 11 out of 11 in all competitions.
What is the team news and any injuries to worry about?
Reece James is set to return after missing the weekend’s win over Leeds.
N’Golo Kante and Christian Pulisic have also taken part in training ahead of the match.
Mason Mount is suspended after picking up three yellow cards in the competition, while Thiago Silva remains out with a knee injury.
Meanwhile Dortmund could be without goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, who was injured in the warm-up against RB Leipzig at the weekend.
Adeyemi is also a doubt, as is Donyell Malen, while Youssoufa Moukoko, Julien Duranville and Mateu Morey all sidelined.
Who will be the star men?
This game could come down to the midfield battle between two of the world’s top talents.
The tussle between Bellingham and Enzo Fernandez in the middle of the park is poised to be a fascinating watch.
And whoever comes out on top could drag their respective teams to victory in the process.
What have the managers said?
Potter is looking forward to unleashing winger Raheem Sterling against Dortmund on Tuesday.
The boss told club media: “Raheem’s goalscoring record in the Champions League speaks for itself.
“He’s an experienced, proven campaigner in that competition and we’re looking forward to having him on the pitch on Tuesday, hopefully enjoying his football and contributing to us winning and going through.”
SunSport prediction
Don’t be fooled by the recent form, Chelsea could have earned at least a draw in the first-leg last month.
And Saturday’s win over Leeds will kick them into gear for this huge clash – but it won’t be easy.
Home advantage will see the Blues progress, but don’t be surprised if this game goes the distance.
Prediction: 2-0 Chelsea (after extra time)
When is Chelsea vs Dortmund?
- Chelsea’s crunch Champions League second leg tie against Borussia Dortmund will take place on TOMORROW – Tuesday, March 7.
- It is scheduled to get underway at 8pm UK time.
- Stamford Bridge will play host to the match.
- Dortmund ran out 1-0 winners in the reverse fixture.
What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?
- Chelsea vs Borussia Dortmund will be broadcast LIVE on BT Sport 1 in the UK.
- Coverage is set to commence from 7pm UK time – a whole hour before kick-off.
- Subscription members of BT Sport can stream the entire action live via the BT Sport website or BT Sport app.
- Alternatively, SunSport’s live blog will have minute-by-minute coverage of the match.
What are the odds?
- Chelsea to win 17/20
- Draw 5/2
- Dortmund to win 16/5
To qualify
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- Chelsea 1/1
- Dortmund 8/11
*Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes are correct at time of publication
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
