Shakhtar to frustrate Chelsea and stay top of Group E

Chelsea can't afford another defeat against Shakhtar

Christian Crowther tackles some of the big questions ahead of Wednesday's crucial Champions League clashes...

Will Shakhtar leave London still in possession of Group E's top spot?
Shakhtar arrive at Stamford Bridge in the knowledge that victory will all but guarantee them passage through to the knockout stages. After the Ukrainian giants defeated the European champions in Ukraine and earned a draw against Juventus in Turin, Roberto Di Matteo knows his side are in for another really tough night in the Champions League. Worryingly for Chelsea, since losing to the Ukrainian champions their wobble has continued. The Blues have failed to register a victory inside 90 minutes from their subsequent three games, losing their first Premier League match of the season in that period. Defensively, they have been left exposed by the absence of captain John Terry - set to return tonight - but, even with their talisman, the Blues were still opened up on numerous occasions in the away clash.  
Recommended Bet: Back the draw @ 3.65n/a

Can Juventus bounce back?
The champions of Italy started this group in solid enough fashion with draws at Chelsea and at home to Shakhtar. However, a ninth successive draw in European competition against minnows FC Nordsjlland was not the result Juventus were looking for and has left them vulnerable to an early exit. A victory against the Danish champions on home turf is now absolutely essential to their qualification ambitions and, although Juventus finally surrendered their 49-match unbeaten record in Serie A to Inter on Saturday, the Old Lady are certainly well equipped to get that first win. Nordsjlland have only scored once in their three Champions League games, whereas Juve have won five out of seven games at the Juventus Arena in all competitions this season - keeping three clean sheets.
Recommended Bet: Back Juventus to win to nil @ 1.784/5

Was Celtic's Camp Nou display a one-off?
Celtic were so unlucky not to return home from Spain with a famous point after a heroic display in Barcelona's Camp Nou. Now the Hoops entertain Barca at Celtic Park, where they have their own formidable record in the Champions League - just five defeats in 59 games - as they look to ruffle a few more feathers in Group G. The problem for Celtic, celebrating their 125th anniversary, is that Barca arrive in scintillating form, having smashed their way through their last three fixtures - scoring 11 goals and only conceding one. Celtic will likely concede a lot of possession again and, even though they have quality in some areas, fatigue in the latter stages could cost them again. 
Recommended Bet: Back Draw/Barcelona in the Half Time/Full Time market @ 5.04/1