David Luiz's injury-time free kick goal gave Chelsea a vital win  in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final. However, Basel are not death and buried yet and has shown great form this year. This week's match of the week is between Chelsea and Basel!


Europa League Semi-final 2. leg
Stamford Bridge
02-05-2013 @ 20.05 UK

How are the two teams form?

The home side, Chelsea, are back on track after a period of loses and draws. This weekend they won 2-0 against Swansea and is 3 in the Premier League. Chelsea made their way to the semi-finals after sending Sparta Praha, Steaua and Rubin out in the dark after some tight matches. Their topscorer in Europa League is Fernando Torres with 4 goals.

Basel is currently 1st in the Swiss Super League and is unbeaten in two matches. The Swiss has shown good from in the Europa League this year, finishing second in the Group G after Genk with 9 points. On their way to the semi-finals,  Basel has met Dnipro, Zenit and Tottenham. Their topscorer is veteran Marco Streller with 4 goals.

How are the probable starting XI's?

There are currently no news of injuries since the last meeting, why the probable starting XI's could be as following:

Cech

Cole - Terry - Ivanovic - Azpilicueta

Lampard - Luiz

Moses - Hazard - Ramires

Torres
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Streller

Stocker - Die - Elneny - Salah

Frei

Joo-Ho - Dragovic - Schar - Degen

Sommer

What to expect from this match?

The first leg between the tow teams was very tight, and we can expect to see it again. However, Basel has to take control and take some changes if they want anything out of this match. That said, Chelsea can not feel comfortable with just a 2-1 lead from the first match.

The Blues are strong at home, but Basel has a thing for English teams after sending Tottenham out in the cold. Taking a defensive starting point will be good for Chelsea, but they also have to come forward - anything else will be suicide.

I expect to see a very attacking Basel right from the start. An early goal will definitely put Chelsea under pressure and will be good for the match in general. Both teams have something to offer, the question is who has the most?

What are the odds?

Paddy Power and StanJames currently have the highest odds on a Chelsea victory with 1/2 while a draw gives back 18/5 at BETVICTOR. Are you betting on Basel totesport and BETFRED gives back 7.