Luckily for Chelsea fans, the team seemed to play its best last season when its back was against the wall, especially in Champions League play. Time and again the Blues were able to step up in key moments and now they are facing their first one of this season's marquee tournament. The biggest key to success is more consistent play up front. Fernando Torres has cooled off after looking like he had gotten back on track early in the campaign, and nobody else has emerged as a true top target on the attack.
Football, Ukraine: Shakhtar Donetsk live scores, results, fixtures
Chelsea won the possession battle in the first matchup and should be able to do so again on home turf. Finding a way to create, and eventually capitalize on, scoring chances will determine if they can exact some revenge for that prior loss. As for the Miners, it's hard not to be impressed with how they've performed so far.
Austria Vienna vs Shakhtar Donetsk Betting Odds - Winner
They were widely overlooked when the tournament began, but have held their own in every match so far and have positioned themselves to advance. They must avoid complacency, though. Chelsea will attempt to control this match from the outset, and Shakhtar has to make sure that doesn't happen. They have to keep the possession battle pretty close to earn a result. Ultimately, the Blues should be able to do just enough to pick up the much-needed victory, but not before some nervy moments for players and fans alike.
Chelsea vs. Shakhtar Donetsk: TV and Live Stream Info for Champions League ClashClive Rose/Getty ImagesChelsea, the defending Champions League winners, are on shaky ground with three matches left in group play. The Blues are just one point ahead of Juventus for the second spot with opponent Shakhtar Donetsk leading the way right now. They can turn things around by securing all three points at home on Wednesday, however, which would be enough to put the Blues back atop Group E with two matches left. Of course, the Miners will be looking to extend their lead with another victory over Chelsea. There is clearly no shortage of storylines heading into the clash, so here's a look at the viewing information for the match followed by a preview and prediction.
Chelsea vs. Shakhtar Donetsk: TV and Live Stream Info for
Where: Stamford Bridge in London, EnglandWhen: Wednesday, Nov. 7 at 2:45 p. m. ETWatch: Fox Soccer PlusLive Stream: Fox Soccer 2GoMatch PreviewWhen these two clubs met a couple weeks ago, goals from Alex Teixeira and Fernandinho led Shakhtar Donetsk to victory. A late tally from Oscar was a rare bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming performance from the Blues. Now, they return home in need of three points with a trip to Juventus looming in a couple weeks. The Blues don't want to head into that match needing a victory, so expect an inspired performance on Wednesday with the stakes so high.
Austria Wien vs Shakhtar Donetsk Live Odds