(Football news) Defending champions Chelsea are all set to begin the knockouts to try and regain their title. They will be facing Ligue 1 champions Lille at Stamford Bridge with the return leg scheduled a month later in France. Chelsea enter the tie as firm favourites while Lille will be looking to pull off a major upset.

Chelsea come into the game after winning 5 consecutive matches in all competitions. They also won the FIFA Club World Cup in the process. After a tricky patch Thomas Tuchel has got his side back to winning ways as Chelsea got a narrow 1-0 win against Crystal Palace at the weekend thanks to a late goal by Hakim Ziyech. Lille on the other hand are currently struggling at the 11th position in Ligue 1 as they haven't been able to continue their form from last season. They are playing in the UCL knockouts for the first time since 2007. Lille couldn't score against Metz at the weekend as the game ended 0-0.

Chelsea's major issue is that both their first choice right backs are injured. A lot will be expected out of Romelu Lukaku who has somewhat regained his goalscoring form as he netted a goal each in the Semifinal and final of the Club World Cup. Benjamin Andre and Jonathan David will be the key figures for Lille. The pair will have to play the best football of their lives if Lille are to win this tie. Renato Sanchez returned after a groin injury and played 9 minutes in the goalless draw against Metz as the Portuguese could come off the bench to make an impact.

Both the sides have considerably dropped in form as compared to last season. It is definitely Chelsea's tie to lose as Thomas Tuchel's job could be in danger if they do not progress to the quarter finals. Hakim Ziyech is the man in form and the player to look out for. Along with Ben Chilwell Reece James and Mason Mount are also out of the clash despite returning to team training. 

Chelsea possible starting XI: Benjamin Mendy; Andreas Christensen, Thiago Silva, Antonio Rudiger; Cesar Azpilicueta, Jorginho, Ngolo Kante, Marcos Alonso; Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz, Romelu Lukaku.

Lille possible starting XI: Leo; Mehmet Zeki Çelik, Jose Fonte, Sven Botman, Gabriel Gudmundsson; Timothy Weah, Benjamin Andre, Xeka, Jonathan Bamba; Jonathan David, Burak Yilmaz.

Also read: Real Madrid go 6 points clear while Atleti and Barca keep up in the top 4 race