Chelsea v Barcelona- Match Preview

Last updated : 18 April 2012 By DSG

Chelsea go into the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals with a number of defensive problems.

The FA Cup finalists will face current Champions League holders Barcelona at Stamford Bridge, and Roberto Di Matteo will need to decide whether to keep faith with the same side that thrashed Spurs on Sunday.

David Luiz is likely to miss out after being stretchered off in the FA Cup semi-final.

Gary Cahill is also struggling but John Terry should continue to play despite a rib injury.

Branislav Ivanovic should replace Jose Bosingwa at right-back, having been suspended for the FA Cup semi-final.

Di Matteo thinks his side can exploit weaknesses in the Barcelona side.

"We just need to exploit them,"

"You look at the way you can hurt Barcelona and create them difficulties. I've seen many games."

Barcelona have no fresh injury problems of their own.

Dani Alves, Gerard Pique, Seydou Keita and Ibrahim Afellay are all back in the squad.

Barcelona coach Guardiola meanwhile says he is unfazed by the prospect of a physical approach from Chelsea.

"Am I worried by Chelsea's physical approach? No, I'm not worried," Guardiola said.

"I'm used to it."We have the mentality to control this situation. It's very important to have this mentality."

Chelsea last five matches: W, D, W, W, W

Possible starting XI: Cech; Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill, Cole; Mikel, Lampard Ramires, Mata, Kalou; Drogba

Barcelona last five matches: W, W, W, W, W

Possible starting XI: Valdes; Puyol, Mascherano, Pique; Alves, Xavi, Busquets, Iniesta; Sanchez, Messi, Pedro

Chelsea v Barcelona- view commentary, squad, and statictics of the game live.

Source: DSG

Source: DSG