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The focus shifts towards an important evening in the Champions League. A pair of fascinating encounters headline the lineup, as sides competing for important points in the group stage.

A Question Mark Over Chelsea

What version of the London club will appear on Italian soil? Their previous European outing was a statement, a comprehensive three-goal win against Barcelona that stood as a peak for their manager's reign. However, form has been unpredictable afterwards. A solid tie with their London rivals was followed by a loss away to Leeds United, and a dour draw at Bournemouth has left them with confidence drained.

Awaiting them is a dangerous Atalanta who are tied in the standings with them. La Dea endured a 4-0 opening defeat in Paris yet have gone undefeated in Europe since, contrasting somewhat mid-table results in Serie A.

A Must-Win for Tottenham

Much like their rivals, Ange Postecoglou's side have been famously inconsistent. A 5-3 defeat in Paris, sandwiched between disappointing losses to Arsenal and Fulham, had increased pressure on manager the Danish coach. But, the last two domestic outings – a win and a draw from six – have provided a measure of calm.

This evening, they welcome Czech opponents yet to win in the competition. These are exactly the type of match which Spurs need to be won if they are of climbing into the top eight, particularly given forthcoming challenges against Borussia Dortmund and Frankfurt still to come.

The Evening's Other Games

The drama is not limited to those two matches. One notable game, Barcelona will look to bounce back after their loss as they welcome Eintracht Frankfurt. Meanwhile, high-flying PSV Eindhoven will provide a major challenge for the defence of Atlético Madrid. Finally, Monaco entertains Galatasaray in a match that has all the makings of a potential goal-fest. All matches kick off this evening.

A pivotal evening in the group stage awaits, as clubs fighting for their path into the latter stages.