Champions League Preview: Spurs Host Werder Bremen, Schalke Face Lyon

Bayern Munich’s loss in Rome yesterday meant little in terms of their actual European ambitions, because qualification to the round of sixteen had already been sealed. The situation for the Bundesliga’s other two Champions League representatives is far different, though. Werder Bremen are very nearly out of European competition altogether this season, so a big result in London is a must for Thomas Schaaf’s men. Schalke are in a much more positive position, and after their fantastic weekend result they’ll be confident that they can get another three Champions League points and secure qualification into the round of sixteen.

Tottenham Hotspur v Werder Bremen

Tottenham are going into this tie on the back of an almost unbelievable 2-3 win at the home of their North London rivals Arsenal. After going 2-0 down in the first half, Harry Redknapp and his Spurs turned the game around in the second half and stunned their hosts. Tottenham will be energized and filled with confidence, and I don’t expect this game to last longer than half time for Werder Bremen. Thomas Schaaf’s men have been completely catastrophic in defense, and I expect Tottenham to have way too much for the Bundesliga side tonight. It might be an absolute bloodbath. Werder Bremen will be without Brazilian midfielder Wesley who pulled up injured on the weekend against Schalke. Marko Arnautovic is also set to miss out.

Schalke 04 v Olympique Lyon

Schalke finally looked like the team we all know they can be at the weekend when they completely took Werder Bremen apart, and beat them four-nil. A Raul hat-trick was the highlight of the match, and the legendary striker’s finishing will once again be the main threat going forward for the Bundesliga side. While Lyon are impressive on paper, I don’t think they’ve been able to show it yet on the pitch and I think Magath and Schalke will celebrate a win tonight.