Wednesday night brings a slate of crucial Champions League matches, with teams battling to solidify their positions as the league phase nears its conclusion. Key clashes include Chelsea hosting Pafos, Newcastle United welcoming PSV Eindhoven, and Juventus facing Benfica in Turin.
At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea faces Pafos FC in a match with significant implications for the Blues' chances of progressing to the last 16. Chelsea, currently sitting outside the automatic qualification spots, needs a victory to keep their hopes alive. This is Pafos' first ever meeting with English opposition. Cypriot sides have a poor record against English teams, with only one win in 21 previous encounters. Chelsea is unbeaten in their last 14 home Champions League league phase games, winning the last five. Meanwhile, Pafos, in their debut Champions League season, have struggled to score away from home. They have lost three of their last four competitive away matches.
In Newcastle, St. James' Park sets the stage for a pivotal encounter between Newcastle United and PSV Eindhoven. Both teams are vying for a spot in the knockout rounds, making this a high-stakes affair. Newcastle will be without several key players due to injuries, including Tino Livramento, Fabian Schar and others. PSV also has their share of absentees. Newcastle's wingers, Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes, have been key contributors in the Champions League this season. The last time these teams met at St James' Park in the UEFA Cup, Newcastle won 2-1.
Meanwhile, Juventus will clash with Benfica in a must-win game for the Italian side. Juventus is mindful of their poor recent history against Benfica, who have won their last three matches against Juventus. Juventus has not beaten Benfica in 33 years. Juventus will be without Dušan Vlahović due to injury. Jonathan David is expected to lead Juventus' attack, supported by Weston McKennie and Kenan Yıldız. Benfica will be without several players due to injury, including Dodi Lukebakio and Alexander Bah. Vangelis Pavlidis will lead the Portuguese side's attack. The match will be shown live on TNT Sports 5 in the UK and Ireland, and on Paramount+ in the United States.
