Chelsea at BK Häcken: UWCL preview round 2, predicted XI

With just two contests left in the group stages, this is one that could be crucial in deciding which side will finish as the top of the four sides. The club in yellow and black has been just as much as a force on its home turf in 2023 as the Blues. Djurgardens IF, an outfit out of Stockholm was the last side to take Hacken down at the Bravida Arena, but that was last March when the team was under different leadership.

One of the key storylines coming into this massive European matchup in Gothenburg is the return of two of the Chels' center backs. Hayes gave an injury update, stating that while Melanie Leupolz has not fully recovered after obtaining the flu, Kadeisha Buchanan, and Maren Mjelde make a return to the squad. The English manager also expressed that goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger is back after missing out over the weekend in Bristol due to what was explained as an ankle issue.

Sjoeke Nusken should move back into the midfield with Erin Cuthbert, slotting the Canadian, who has been quite impressive since Millie Bright's injury next to Jess Carter. With Guro Reiten still getting back to herself, Kaneryd may very well make it into the starting XI as a right winger for her homecoming.

Chelsea Women at BK Häcken predicted starting XI

Goalkeeper: Zecira Musovic

Defenders: Jess Carter, Eve Perisset, Niamh Charles, Kadeisha Buchanan

Midfielders: Erin Cuthbert, Jessie Fleming, Sjoeke Nusken

Forwards: Sam Kerr, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, Lauren James

Chelsea Women at BK Häcken match info

Date: Wednesday, December 20

Time: 20:00 GMT, 3:00 p.m. EST

TV Broadcast: DAZN on YouTube, TNT Sports 2 (UK)