Chelsea are back in action in the Champions League, gearing up for a difficult test away to Sporting Lisbon.

Both sides drew their first matches 1-1 respectively, which means the group is still wide open. With all to play for, Chelsea will look to affirm why they are considered among favourites to win the whole competition. Chelsea were held at home to an impressive Schalke side while Sporting could only manage a draw against surprise outfit Maribor.

Team News:

Chelsea: 
Once again, injuries are few and far between for Mourinho's side. Ramires and Drogba have not traveled to Portugal for the game as the Brazilian is still sidelined for another week or so while Drogba has not passed a fitness test. Jose Mourinho confirmed this week that Diego Costa will start the Champions League clash despite his lingering hamstring problem. It seems as though the backroom staff at the club have done well in nurturing the team, keeping the majority of them fit and raring to go.

Sporting Lisbon:
Sporting are in a similar situation to the London club in terms of a healthy squad. The only player that is out of contention of playing on Tuesday is Rabia, meaning both sides at full strength could mean for a great game of football. Someone familiar with facing Chelsea is on loan winger, Nani. The Man United loanee has featured in multiple meetings with the Blues, including score a few in the process.


Stats:
Sporting Lisbon look to continue their impressive record of 16 unbeaten European home games in a row.
Chelsea have faced Portuguese opposition 9 times, losing once, winning 7 times and drawing just the one time.
Sporting have won their last three home games against English opponents without allowing a goal.

Prediction:
The two teams have never met before but are both rich in history, making the clash even more enticing. At the moment, it's difficult to see Chelsea losing even though it is away to a very tricky Sporting Lisbon side. The quality of Diego Costa from the start was missing in the Blues' first group game and that may be the difference. Chelsea 2-0 Sporting Lisbon.