Liverpool vs Chelsea
Anfield, 19.45GMT
The reds are on hot form at the moment, suffering just one loss in their last 14 games in all competitions - including wins against Arsenal and Inter Milan. This will be added to by the usual Anfield atmosphere which drives Liverpool on in big Champions League nights. 9 goals in their last 3 games proves that Liverpool can no longer be classed as a boring side - especially with high-flying Spaniard Fernando Torres on fiery form.
Chelsea's recent form has been relatively shaky, with a high scoring draw with Tottenham balanced by a low scoring draw with Wigan. This is added to by a defeat at the hands of Fenerbache, and a victory against Fenerbache. Manchester United's recent failure at Blackburn has seen Chelsea's Premier League hopes come back to life - and manager Avram Grant has been uncharecteristically vocal ahead of Tuesday's clash, insisting Chelsea have a chance "to make history" by beating Liverpool.
Liverpool have been bossted by confirmation of skipper Steven Gerrard's return to full fitness.
Chelsea will be without tireless midfielder Michael Essien through suspension, and Carlo Cudicini is still injured. The early signs suggest that a troublesome knee will give Drogba a place on the bench at best. Frank Lampard is once again availible to play.
These two sides have history in both the Premier and Champion's League, with Liverpool maintaining the upper hand in the latter. Chelsea will want to avoid crashing out to Liverpool in the semis for a 3rd year straight.
Fernando Torres is the key. He has scored in all seven of Liverpool's last seven home games in all competitions. If he maintains that record, Liverpool will be sitting pretty in the tie.
Chelsea's recent form has been so unpredictable, and Liverpool have to be made favourites for this one. I just think that with recent rumours about Avram's future, and the multiple title scares, Chelsea will do their absouloute utmost to prevent mort heartache.
Prediction
Liverpool 1 : 1 Chelsea
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