Inter Hint At Resurgence

Qualification from the group stages may not even be a foregone conclusion for the Spanish giants if more points are dropped here.

There is always an underdog in the latter stages of the competition and the long odds suggest Chelsea are that. However, as Europa League champions, part of the strong English contingent and with quality youngsters, perhaps they shouldn't be.

Neither team would welcome the comparison, but the 2019 Spurs progress seems to have the same story arch as Chelsea back in 2012. Surely the final will produce a few more fireworks after semis for the ages.

The chances are that Liverpool are about to end a magnificent season trophyless. Failure to grab an away goal at the Nou Camp, and key injuries make this first part mission impossible.

Ajax have been exhilarating throughout their Champions League campaign with the standout performances coming on the road. The fear, from an English perspective, is that Spurs are knackered and peaked in the Man City tie.

Spurs are still considered underdogs for Champions League progression but a first leg clean sheet could prove critical.