The away goal which Rubin managed to score gives the team hope and it is clear that this battle is not over. English clubs traditionally perform poorly in Russia, which is understandable considering the severe weather conditions there, the long distance the have to travel from England and of course the passionate supporters of Russian clubs. Chelsea enters this game with a serious advantage of two goals, but the team of Rafa Benitez is has not been convincing as a guest this season.
Chelsea were dumped out of the Champions League exactly after such poor away play, having lost 3-0 to Juventus. Then the coach of Londoners, however, was another, and their current coach Rafa Benitez is a specialist in tournament matches. The squad of the guests have problems with injured Gary Cahill, Ashley Cole, Oriol Romeu and Demba Ba is not alowed to participate in the tournament. In the team of Rubin (Kazan) there are no problems with injured or suspended players and Kurban Berdyev can rely on the best he has.
Given the outcome of the last match between these two teams, the hosts are expected to start the match more aggressive in pursuit of an early goal. Chelsea on the other hand, will most likely bet on more defensive formation in the typical style of Rafa Benitez to keep a clean sheet at least in the first half. If these tactics work, then hosts will necessarily have to throw in a serious attack in the second half, opening a large space for counterattacks for the fast players like Oscar and Hazard.
Undoubtedly, we can expect very exciting game in which the first goal will be crucial.