Chelsea begin their 2008-09 Champions League campaign against French side Girondins de Bordeaux, and a win is really the only acceptable outcome.
The Blues have been showing a decent shape at home, and will thrive on the 1-3 win at Manchester City on Sunday. Bordeaux have been less convincing, and earned just one point from their last two Ligue 1 games.
Chelsea have a strong home record in the Champions League, having won nine of their twelve most recent games at Stamford Bridge. The remaining three were drawn.
Bordeaux meanwhile, are looking for their first win over an English side ever in a European tournament.
Chelsea will still be without Ballack, but Didier Drogba should be make an appearance.
REVIEW:
Chelsea have begun this year's European campaign with a convincing 4-0 win over Girondins de Bordeaux at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues took the lead after 14 minutes. Jose Bosingwa sent in a cross from the right wing and Frank Lampard headed home for 1-0.
And Lampard was again of importance for the second goal in the 30th minute, this time providing the corner kick that allowed Joe Cole to head past goalkeeper Rame.
Chelsea consolidated their lead until the 82nd minute, when Florent Malouda netted the home side's third. Frank Lampard again delivered the assist.
Juliano Belletti hit the cross bar in the 92nd minute, but Nicolas Anelka stood in the right place to score in the rebound.
Chelsea take the lead in Group A, ahead of CFR Cluj. Roma are third, and Bordeaux take the bottom spot.