Starting with the hosts, while Chelsea might have signed off September with a shock 3-1 drumming at home against Brighton, the Blues have come roaring back in an impressive fashion. Last seen over the weekend marking their return from October's international break with a routine 3-0 victory away at a struggling Nottingham Forest, Enzo Maresca's men will be smelling the chance to extend on their recent purple patch here. Heading into October's fortnight interval with a stunning last-gasp 2-1 win at home against reigning Premier League champions Liverpool, Chelsea have won their previous three appearances across all competitions by an aggregate score of 6-1. Putting a maiden Champions League victory on the board last month as they clinched a 1-0 victory against Benfica, the Blues are rightfully installed as a standout contender here.
Starting with the hosts, while Real Madrid might have only got a new era underway over the summer following Xabi Alonso's arrival in the Spanish capital, Los Blancos are clearly enjoying life under the former Bayer Leverkusen boss. Last seen over the weekend collecting a gritty 1-0 victory away at local foes Getafe, they have skyrocketed their way to the top of the La Liga standings.
Starting with the hosts, while Sweden might have opened their World Cup qualifying adventure last month in the midst of what was an extended flurry, Jon Dahl Tomasson's camp have endured a stuttering start to proceedings. Last seen putting in a downbeat performance as they slumped to a 2-0 loss away at Kosovo, the Yellows have put just a single point on the board from their opening two Group B showdowns.