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All eyes is on an important night of European football. A pair of fascinating encounters headline the lineup, as sides competing for vital points in the group stage.

The Chelsea Conundrum

Which iteration of Chelsea will appear in Bergamo? Their previous Champions League outing was a statement, a comprehensive 3-0 victory over the Catalan giants that stood as a high point in their manager's reign. However, results has proven elusive since then. A credible draw with their London rivals was followed by a loss away to Leeds United, followed by a lackluster draw on the south coast means they arrive with confidence sapped.

They face a tricky Atalanta who are level on points alongside them. The Italian side suffered a 4-0 opening defeat in Paris but have remained unbeaten on the continent ever since, contrasting their modest results in Serie A.

A Must-Win for Tottenham

Much like their London counterparts, Ange Postecoglou's side can be famously unreliable. A heavy loss away to PSG, sandwiched between disappointing defeats to Arsenal and Fulham, had increased scrutiny on boss the Danish coach. However, the last two domestic outings – a win and a draw from six – have provided some stability.

This evening, they host a Slavia Prague side yet to win in this year's tournament. This is exactly the type of match which Spurs need to be won if they are to climb into the top eight, particularly given upcoming challenges versus Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt still to come.

Elsewhere Across Europe

The drama extends beyond those two matches. In a key encounter, the Blaugrana will look to respond after their loss as they welcome the German side. At the same time, free-scoring PSV Eindhoven pose a stern test to the defence of Atlético Madrid. Rounding out the night, Monaco hosts the Turkish champions in an encounter which promises to be a goal-fest. All matches kick off this evening.

A crucial evening in the group stage is upon us, with teams striving for a route into the latter stages.