Europa League: Chelsea v FC Basel match preview
A look ahead to tonight’s Europa League semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.European Champions Chelsea host FC Basel in the second leg of their Europa League semi-final. The home side are firmly in the driving seat having already secured two away goals in Switzerland. But manager Rafael Benitez will have to be wary and learn from Tottenham’s mistakes that knocked them out of the competition.
The Swiss champions face a tough task to score the two goals needed. It may be their first ever trip to Stamford Bridge but they should not expect a warm welcome against the last English team in the competition who will be desperate to obtain their second successive European trophy after a dismal Champions League campaign. It is also the Londoner's last chance for silverware.
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard, who has featured for much of the Blues' Europa League ties, will have the opportunity to equal Bobby Tambling's all time goal-scoring record for the club at the Bridge should he take part.
Despite Ramires having to go off with a dead leg on Sunday against Swansea, the Brazilian will be able to join the rest of a fully fit squad. Basel also have a clean bill of health after Philipp Degen escaped injury from David Luiz's horror tackle in the first leg.
KICK-OFF: Thursday, 8.05pm
PAST MEETINGS…
FC Basel 1 (Schar) Chelsea 2 (Moses, Luiz), Europa League, knock-out phase, April 2013
STATS…
This marks Basel's first ever semi-final in a major Uefa competition.
Fernando Torres has four goals in his last four games in the competition.
Chelsea have not kept a clean sheet in their last 11 European matches.
Benitez is the only manager left in the competition who has won the trophy before.
ODDS…
Chelsea to win: 1.53
FC Basel to win: 7.6
Draw: 4.6
TV: Live on ITV at 8.05pm
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments