Two European giants mark major milestones on Tuesday night as Chelsea and Ajax meet in a Champions League league-phase encounter at Stamford Bridge. The fixture will see the Blues contest their 200th game in the tournament proper, while Ajax celebrate their 250th top-tier European appearance — setting the stage for a night of history and high stakes.

Chelsea arrive in formidable form, riding a wave of momentum under manager Enzo Maresca. Since edging Benfica 1–0 on September 30 — courtesy of an own goal from Richard Rios — the Club World Cup champions have racked up three consecutive victories across all competitions. Back-to-back Premier League wins over Liverpool and Nottingham Forest have silenced any doubts surrounding Maresca’s leadership, especially after a rocky September spell.

The Blues will look to extend their remarkable home record in Europe, having gone 15 straight Champions League group-stage matches unbeaten at Stamford Bridge and suffering just two defeats in their last 60 continental home fixtures. For Ajax, who are yet to register a point in this season’s campaign, the challenge is steep but symbolic — a chance to spoil Chelsea’s celebration night and reignite their own European hopes.

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