Guinness Cup 2013: Previewing Day 3's Matches

There are two high-profile matches on tap at the Guinness Cup 2013 on Thursday. In one match, Inter Milan will battle Chelsea, and in the other, Real Madrid will battle the Los Angeles Galaxy of the MLS.

The tournament takes place in the United States, so the Galaxy will be the favorites of most of the fans, but each club should have a solid contingent in attendance.

From a pure star-power standpoint, both matches will have some major appeal. Here's a closer look at both matchups.

Chelsea vs. Inter Milan at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind. at 8 p.m. ET

Despite winning their last three matches, Chelsea hasn't played exceptionally well in the last few months of preseason matches. Those three wins came over Indonesia, Malaysia XI and a Thailand All-Star team. Chelsea outscored this trio of opponents by a combined 13-2.

The two matches prior were in May against Manchester City and Chelsea dropped both contests. As they get set to take on another high-level club and open the 2013-14 season, Chelsea must look to set a high standard for the season.

Milan has taken two of the three last meetings, but the sides haven't played since 2010. Chelsea should win this match as Milan has struggled to score against lesser competition.

Expect Fernando Torres to be active and to help lead Chelsea to a fast start. He was the club's leading goal scorer last season and he'll key a big win for Chelsea on Thursday.

Real Madrid vs. L.A. Galaxy at University of Phoenix Stadium in Phoenix, Ariz. at 10:30 ET

The American crowd will be firmly behind the Galaxy, but that won't be enough. The Galaxy will be led by Landon Donovan, who just helped guide the U.S. national team to a Gold Cup victory, but Cristiano Ronaldo and Real are a different animal.

The wealth of talent on the Real Madrid side doesn't stop with Ronaldo. Karim Benzema and Xabi Alonso are also among the world's best.

Donovan and goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini will need to inspire an awesome effort from their teammates to have a shot at pulling the upset.

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