Atalanta Takes On The Blues, Spurs Hosts Slavia Prague – An Evening of European Action

The focus shifts towards an important evening in the Champions League. Two fascinating matches headline the lineup, as sides battling for important standings as the group phase continues.

A Question Mark Over Chelsea

Which iteration of Chelsea will we see on Italian soil? Their previous European performance was a statement, an emphatic 3-0 victory against the Catalan giants that stood as a peak in Enzo Maresca's tenure. However, form has proven unpredictable since then. A credible draw against their London rivals came before a loss at Leeds, followed by a dour draw at Bournemouth has left them with confidence drained.

Awaiting them is a dangerous Atalanta that sits tied in the standings alongside them. La Dea endured a 4-0 opening defeat at PSG but have remained unbeaten in Europe since, defying somewhat modest domestic form.

Spurs Seeking Consistency

Much like their rivals, Ange Postecoglou's side can be notoriously inconsistent. A heavy loss in Paris, coming between painful losses to Arsenal and Fulham, had increased pressure on manager the Danish coach. But, the last two league results – a win and a draw available – have offered a measure of calm.

This evening, they host Czech opponents still searching for their first victory in this year's tournament. These are exactly the type of match which Spurs need to be won if they are of climbing towards the knockout places, particularly given forthcoming challenges against Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt on the horizon.

Elsewhere Across Europe

The drama is not limited to England and Italy. One key encounter, the Blaugrana will aim to bounce back from their defeat when they host Eintracht Frankfurt. Meanwhile, free-scoring PSV Eindhoven will provide a major challenge to the defence of Diego Simeone's team. Rounding out the night, Monaco entertains the Turkish champions in an encounter which promises of a potential goal-fest. Every game begin this evening.

A pivotal night in the group stage is upon us, with teams striving to secure their path into the latter stages.