Chelsea start the defence of their Champions League crown this evening with a home fixture against Russian side Zenit St Petersburg.
The Blues lifted European club football’s biggest prize for the second time when beating Manchester City 1-0 in last season’s final to cap a remarkable turnaround in fortunes following Thomas Tuchel’s midseason arrival as manager.
The summer arrival of Romelu Lukaku, who scored a brace in Saturday’s win over Aston Villa, has further heightened expectations as Tuchel’s men target success in both European and domestic competition this season.
Date, kick-off time and venue
Chelsea vs Zenit is scheduled for an 8pm BST kick-off tonight.
Where to watch Chelsea vs Zenit
TV channel: The match will be televised on BT Sport 2.
Live stream: BT Sport subscribers will be able to watch the match online via the website or BT Sport app.
Chelsea vs Zenit team news
Chelsea remain without American winger Christian Pulisic because of an ankle injury, while N’Golo Kante is also missing with the same injury although Thomas Tuchel says the midfielder is in line to return against Tottenham on Sunday.
Jorginho is expected to return in midfield having started on the bench against Aston Villa, with Saul Niguez perhaps most likely to lose his place after a difficult debut.
Chelsea vs Zenit prediction
The Blues have looked imperious so far this season and will be out to stamp their authority on the competition they won so unexpectedly last season.
Chelsea 2-0 Zenit
Head to head (h2h) history and results
This will be the first competitive meeting between the two sides.
Betting odds and tips
- Chelsea to win: 1/6
- Draw: 11/2
- Zenit to win: 16/1
