This Steaua v Chelesa prediction is our best bet from today’s Champions League fixtures. It’s true that this first day of the competition’s second round features a number intriguing matches, but it’s that particular derby that we have the most accurate information for. Surprisingly, Chelesa lost their opening game against Basel, and that happened at Stamford Bridge, where Jose Mourinho hadn’t lost in years. It was a huge blow for the Londoners and all their fans, but it’s not the end of the world. They now have five other chances to put things right. On the other end, Steaua also lost their first game – 3:0 defeat at Schalke’s Veltins Arena.
Online bookmakers like bet365 are favoring the English side to win the game, but as Frank Lampard put it in yesterday’s press conference, “you can not afford to underestimate any team in the Champions League. The atmosphere is special and Steaua are a team with a lot of history and support.”. The odds on a win for the visitors have now dropped to 1.75 (were 1.80 yesterday at bet365). The draw is rated nicely at 3.70, while the home win which would be seen as a huge shock is priced at 5.50.
In order to get the most accurate Steaua v Chelsea prediction, ironically, one must examine the past. It’s interesting to note that these two sides met in the elimination stages of last year’s Europa League. Surprisingly, Steaua won the first leg 1-0 at home. However, the Blues turned things around winning 3-1 at the Bridge with Mata, Terry and Torres getting among the goals. So the Romanians have proven to be a tricky opponent, especially when they are home.
A crucial fact about this Steaua v Chelsea prediction is that the Romanians are playing their home games at the Bucurest’s newly built Arena Națională stadium. The game has been sold out already, and with a stadium capacity of over 55,000, you can be certain the the atmosphere will be on a great level. That would be a serious boost for Steaua’s chances and when you add Chelsea’s shaky defense and questionable performances lately, it could make up for a well balanced and very entertaining game. The atmospheric conditions are another factor in that should not be overlooked when you want to bet on the most accurate betting picks. It rained heavily in Bucharest on Monday the forecast is for more rain during on October 1st. The pitch is already wet but there has been a roof in place since lunchtime today.
An interesting stat fact going into today’s best Champions League predictions is that Chelsea’s next draw in Europe would be their 50th. Both teams have won the competition as Steaua are the only Romanian club to have triumphed in Europe, winning the European Champion Clubs’ Cup in 1985/86 by defeating FC Barcelona in a penalty shoot-out. The hosts have won just two of their 18 group stage matches at home.
Obviously, another important element about today’s Champions League picks and this Steaua v Chelsea prediction in particular, is the list of the available players. Since the two-legged affair back in March, Steaua had to sell their two goalscorers from that tie – Raul Rusescu went to Seville and Vlad Chiriches to Tottenham. Hazard will definitely miss the game for Chelsea, while Van Ginkel is out for practically the entire season. Kevin De Bruyne has also remained in England.
Steaua v Chelsea Prediction: Chelsea to Win @ 1.75
