Trapdoor looms for Chelsea in Shakhtar reunion

European champions aim to avenge 2-1 defeat against Ukrainian giants.

LONDON: After one of their most difficult weeks in recent memory, Chelsea host Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League today, knowing defeat could send their season cartwheeling towards catastrophe.

The Blues had been cruising prior to the 2-1 loss at Shakhtar in their previous outing in Group E two weeks ago, but they have now won just one of their last four games in all competitions.

Another loss today, and Roberto Di Matteo’s side will find itself confronted by the very real prospect of becoming the first defending champions to fall in the Champions League group phase.

“It’s like a final for us if we want to finish first in our group,” said midfielder Juan Mata. “We always have great support at the Bridge and I’m confident that we will get a victory to face the last two games in a good position.”

Di Matteo believes playing at home will give them the edge.

“We need to win both home games and maybe get something from Turin,” said Di Matteo. “At Stamford Bridge against Shakhtar, it’ll be a different game to the one in Ukraine. We are very strong at home and we’ll have to produce a special night.”

Braga stand in the way of United qualification

Meanwhile, Manchester United can wrap up their spot in the Champions League knockout phase today if they take maximum points off Portugese side Braga.

Three straight wins has put Sir Alex Ferguson’s three-time champions five points clear at the top of Group H with Romanian outfit CFR Cluj on four points, Braga on three and Turkish giants Galatasaray bringing up the rear with just one point from three matches.

Braga’s defence will be crucial with United’s menacing strike force of Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney already clicking into gear.

Celtic braced for Barcelona challenge

Celtic host Barcelona in a glamour Champions League tie at Parkhead today with both sides carrying lengthy injury lists.

Barcelona could seal their spot in the last-16 of the competition if they claim victory against the ‘Hoops’ in the second of their Group G doubleheader. There was good news for coach Tito Vilanova after Lionel Messi was passed fit to play after an injury scare in the win over Celta Vigo.

“Messi is fine. After speaking to our doctor, I can tell you he has only suffered a blow on his knee,” said Vilanova. “At first, we were concerned he had twisted his knee, but it was only a knock.”

Published in The Express Tribune, November 7^th, 2012.