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The focus is on an important evening in the Champions League. A pair of intriguing encounters take center stage in the schedule, with sides fighting for crucial standings as the group phase continues.

A Question Mark Over Chelsea

What version of the London club will we see in Bergamo? Their previous European performance was a statement, an emphatic three-goal win against Barcelona which was a high point for their manager's reign. Yet, form has been unpredictable since then. A solid tie against their London rivals came before a defeat at Leeds, and a dour draw at Bournemouth means they arrive with confidence sapped.

Awaiting them is a tricky opponent that sits tied in the standings alongside them. The Italian side suffered a 4-0 opening defeat in Paris yet have gone undefeated in Europe since, defying somewhat modest domestic form.

A Must-Win for Tottenham

Much like their rivals, Ange Postecoglou's side have been notoriously inconsistent. A heavy loss away to PSG, sandwiched between disappointing losses in the Premier League, piled pressure on boss the Danish coach. But, the last two domestic outings – four points from six – have offered a measure of calm.

This evening, they host a Slavia Prague side yet to win in this year's tournament. This is precisely the kind of fixture that simply must be won if they are to climb into the top eight, particularly given forthcoming games versus Borussia Dortmund and Frankfurt on the horizon.

Elsewhere Across Europe

The drama extends beyond those two matches. One key encounter, Barcelona will aim to bounce back after their loss when they host the German side. Meanwhile, high-flying PSV Eindhoven pose a major challenge for the defence of Diego Simeone's team. Rounding out the night, AS Monaco hosts the Turkish champions in an encounter that has all the makings to be a goal-fest. Every game begin at 8pm GMT.

A crucial night in the group stage is upon us, with teams striving for a route towards the knockout rounds.