Chelsea vs Lille: TV channel, live stream, team news & prediction
By Max Parsons
Chelsea commence their Champions League knockout phase in midweek, as they host Lille on Tuesday night.
The Blues returned to domestic duties after winning the Club World Cup with an underwhelming 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace last time out - the first time Thomas Tuchel's men have registered back-to-back Premier League victories since late October.
Having finished runners-up to Juventus in Group H, Chelsea now face Group G winners Lille, who have disappointed in Ligue 1 this term. The reigning French champions are only two points off the European places, although sit mid-table having only won nine of their 25 league fixtures so far this term.
Here's 90min's preview of this one.
How to watch Chelsea vs Lille on TV
When is kick off? Tuesday 22 February, 20:00 (GMT)
Where is it being played? Stamford Bridge, London
What TV channel is it on? BT Sport 2 (UK), Paramount+ (US)
Highlights? BT Sport YouTube channel
Who's the referee? Jesus Gil Manzano
Who's the VAR? Alejandro Hernandez
Chelsea team news
Mason Mount's ankle problem will likely keep him out of this clash, with the Englishman's return for the EFL Cup final against Liverpool next weekend looking more positive.
Elsewhere, Ben Chilwell remains a certain absentee alongside Reece James who has recently stepped up his recovery from a long-term hamstring injury.
Meanwhile, Cesar Azpilicueta and Callum Hudson-Odoi represent minor concerns for Tuchel, with both recently picking up knocks.
Lille team news
Angel Gomes was forced off with injury early on in Lille's 0-0 draw with Metz last time out, opening the door for Hatem Ben Arfa or Timothy Weah to feature from the off on Tuesday night.
Meanwhile, Renato Sanches should be a cert to return to the starting XI in place of Xeka in midfield, while Zeki Celik may come back into the fold having served a domestic suspension at the weekend.
Chelsea vs Lille head to head record
If history is to repeat itself in this tie, it's time to say Au Revoir to Lille.
The two side's meetings in the 2019/20 Champions League group stage are their only encounters in competitive action to date, with both resulting in 2-1 victories to the English outfit.
Chelsea vs Lille prediction
It's tough to see any other outcome than a Chelsea win over the two legs when considering Lille's hugely disappointing domestic campaign.
That being said, Les Dogues have made it through their Champions League group which is evidence enough of the threat they can carry. Tuchel, however, has some of the best talent in world football at his disposal - the only option for the hosts is to get this tie off to the perfect start.
Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Lille