PREDICTION: Chelsea vs. Manchester United; (Tonight, at 17:45 BST/2:45 PM EST; TV: ITV1, FSC)
Despite riding a four-match winning streak, Manchester United will have their hands full with Chelsea tonight at Stamford Bridge in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.
The Red Devils haven't won at Stamford Bridge since 2002, and are battling injuries. Though some players will be returning, such as Edwin van der Sar, Rafael, Jonny Evans (from suspension), John O'Shea, and Wes Brown, those player may not be in solid form.
Still an added lift to the defense would be much appreciated by Sir Alex Ferguson.
Rio Ferdinand may also be back in action tonight, but he wouldn't be expected to play the whole match if he is cleared.
On the other side of the ball, Chelsea is only missing David Luiz, and Carlo Ancelotti may have Alex and Yossi Benayoun available.
The Blues haven't lost a match in eight games, and beat Manchester United, 2-1, in their last meeting on March 1st.
The player that nearly all Chelsea fans hope to break out is expensive forward Fernando Torres. Considering Didier Drogba finally broke out of his scoring drought with a goal on Saturday, in a 1-1 match against Stoke City, perhaps now it is Torres's time.
FINAL SCORE PREDICTION: Chelsea 2, Manchester United 1. The Blues will play hard-nosed defense as Ferguson will be hoping for an away goal. Expect Torres to be active, and Ramires to have a strong game. Rooney will be at his best despite a bruised shin.
© Copyright IBTimes 2024. All rights reserved.