Chelsea vs. Juventus: Date, Time, TV Info and Preview

Something has to give in the matchup between Chelsea and Juventus.

Both squads are coming off impressive streaks. Chelsea have recently won the Champions League title and Juventus’ winning streak is showing they are serious contenders. 

Despite the teams’ recent successes, one of these teams will undoubtedly begin the Champions League campaign with a loss.  

Where: Stamford Bridge, London, England

When: Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Time: 19:45 p.m. GMT/2:45 p.m. ET/11:45 a.m. PT

TV Info: Fox Soccer Channel (USA)/Sky Sports HD 2 (UK)

Juventus Breakdown

Juventus were the champions of Serie A last season, as they went undefeated. In fact, the squad is currently on a 42-match winning streak in Serie A dating back to the end of the 2010-11 season.  

The meeting between Chelsea and Juventus may prove to be more difficult for the Italian squad, as they will be without manager Antonio Contre, who is currently serving a 10-month ban for failing to report match-fixing. Massimo Carrera will be taking over the manager duties for the duration of Contre’s ban. 

Unfortunately for Juventus, they will play without former Inter defender Lucio, who will miss the majority of the season due to an ankle injury. 

Juventus does have the debut of former Manchester United midfielder Pogba to look forward to, however.

Nevertheless, Juventus still has the great playmaking ability of Andrea Pirlo to help them topple the current Champions League title holders. 

The meeting between these two teams should be a low-scoring affair, as both teams are looking to hold off a win in order to not begin the season 0-1. 

Chelsea Breakdown

Chelsea begins its defense of its Champions League title against Juventus. Fortunately for The Blues, they have an impressive winning streak at home, winning all six of their Champions League games. 

Chelsea won the last meeting between the two clubs as well. 

Even with all the recent success, Chelsea are still looking to find their identity considering that the team has new players. 

Notably, the squad no longer has long-time Didier Drogba. In his place is Fernando Torres. 

This match can be considered more of a test to how the players mesh together for Blues manager Roberto Di Matteo. 

According to Mirror.co.uk, John Terry is said to have gone through a training session with no real concern and should be available to play against Juventus.

Terry suffered a knee injury towards the end of a 0-0 game against QPR. Look for Terry to play and be a factor in Wednesday's game.