Chelsea vs Barcelona tips and predictions: Enzo Maresca’s men take on toughest test yet?

Chelsea state of play

Chelsea continued their strong run of form after returning from the international break with a 2-1 victory against Burnley, which took the Blues up to second in the Premier League. 

Enzo Maresca’s side are now unbeaten in their previous five games in all competitions, as the youthful squad has been quietly going about their business in impressive fashion. 

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However, their return to the Champions League has been mixed so far, with the two-time winners being held to a surprising 2-2 draw against Qarabag FK during their most recent outing. 

That result has put some pressure on Chelsea’s remaining games in the competition, although a victory at Stamford Bridge would see them overtake Barcelona. 

Barcelona state of play

Barcelona have been slightly inconsistent at times throughout this season, but when Hansi Flick’s men are in full flow, they remain a difficult outfit to play against. 

That was clear this past weekend when Barcelona played at Camp Nou for the first time in over 900 days, defeating Athletic Bilbao 4-0 to go within a point of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. 

READ: Full Champions League betting breakdown, team news and predictions

In the Champions League, Barcelona have the same record as Chelsea, with two wins, a draw, and a defeat, but they have showcased their attacking qualities in the competition. 

Only PSG and Bayern Munich, who play Arsenal on Wednesday, have scored more than the Spanish giants, which will stand them in good stead against the Blues.

Key talking point: Chelsea and Barcelona will provide goals at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea and Barcelona boast some of the most exciting young footballers in world football, which should lead to a thrilling, end-to-end fixture at Stamford Bridge. 

Neither team can afford to be overly cautious as they aren’t in the strongest positions following their opening four matches. 

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It means there will be some pressure on this fixture that should lead to an open game. 

With so many young and hungry players set to be on display, this could be the pick of game week five in the Champions League, in what could be a closely fought contest. 

FIRST.com’s top tip - Chelsea vs Barcelona

Given the fact that Chelsea are heading into this match with a five-game unbeaten streak. 

This, coupled with the fact that they have won both their home Champions League games, this could end up being a memorable night for the Blues.

Pick: Chelsea to win – 5/4 (Coral)

Extra tips

Lamine Yamal and Willian Estevao are lighting up the footballing world this season, and they could prove to be the sparks that ignite this fixture. 

Pick: Lamine Yamal and Estevao to each have 2+ shots on target – 15/2 (Ladbrokes)

Robert Lewandowski already has eight goals to his name in the La Liga this season, and he will be looking to open his account in the Champions League this week. 

Pick: Robert Lewandowski to score 2+ goals – 11/2 (Betfred)

Team news

Chelsea are still missing Cole Palmer after he broke his toe in an accident at home, while Levi Colwill remains sidelined with a long-term knee problem. The Blues will also be without Romeo Lavia, who is dealing with a thigh issue. 

For the visitors, it’s touch and go for Manchester United-loanee Marcus Rashford through illness, while Pedri is missing due to a hamstring injury. 

Gavi is sidelined with a knee problem, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen has a back injury.

Chelsea vs Barcelona predicted line-ups

Chelsea: Sanchez; James, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Estevao, Pedro, Gittens; Delap (4-2-3-1)

Barcelona: J. Garcia; Kounde, E. Garcia, Cubarsi, Balde; Casado, De Jong; Yamal, Lopez, Torres; Lewandowski (4-2-3-1)

Form guide (all competitions)

Chelsea: WWWWLWWDWW

Barcelona: WLLWWLWDWW

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Odds correct at the time of writing.