UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Chelsea kick-off title defense against Zenit

The group stage of this season’s UEFA Champions League kicks-off across Europe tonight.

Defending champions, Chelsea will kick-off their campaign against Russian champions Zenit St Petersburg at the Stamford Bridge tonight.

Recall that Chelsea defeated fellow English side Manchester City by a lone goal to emerge last season’s champions.

Chelsea will miss the services of N’Golo Kante and Christian Pulisic tonight as both players are still recovering from ankle injuries.

Zenit St Petersburg picked up only one point in their six group games last season. They will be hoping to better their performance this season.

See also  EPL: Chelsea, Arsenal Clash Ends In Deadlock as Man Utd Crush Leicester City.

Meanwhile, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said, “It is addictive, this game is about winning because it changes the atmosphere and feeling and gives you natural confidence.”

In the group’s other match Malmo FF will host Juventus, who will not be having Cristiano Ronaldo.