On paper, it might look like a David vs Goliath battle, but judging by the form of both teams at the moment in their respective leagues, anything can be expected. The defending League Cup holders and the Premier League champions Chelsea take on League One side Walsall today at the Banks' Stadium in the third round of the Capital One Cup.
The Blues from London have had a forgettable start to the Premier League season, as they find thmselves in 15th spot, with two wins and three losses. They have also conceded as many as 12 goals from these games.
Their opponents Walsall are currently in second position in the League One table, with five wins and one loss from their eight games this season.
And although the West Midlands outfit ply their trade in a lower league, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has stated he will not take their opponents lightly.
The Portuguese coach has mentioned that he is willing to put out the best possible team for the match.
"We look to the competition in a proper way, and I also think it's very important to respect opponents. I don't think opponents from the Championship, League One or League Two expect the big clubs to go and play against them without the best players," Mourinho said.
"They [Walsall] want a big day for themselves. Imagine if we go to Walsall without any one of our most important players - even if they won I don't think the feeling would be the same. For Walsall players and Walsall supporters it's important the big teams show that respect and that commitment.
Defensive stalwart John Terry and Colombian forward Radamel Falcao are expected to start for the Londoners in the game.
"Of course John's experience will help," Mourinho said. "He didn't play the last match so he is completely fresh and completely motivated to play, the same as Falcao for example.
"Chelsea is Chelsea, and wearing the Chelsea shirt always brings responsibility. Every player is more than happy to play."
Meanwhile, Walsall manager Dean Smith is optimistic ahead of the match, and he has urged his team to target an historic win.
"It's a great draw for the football club," said Smith. "For me personally, I think it's a really tough draw - but an exciting one.
"We want to get through to the next round of the cup and it would be a fantastic scalp for us. We're going to have to be very, very good on the night. For these lads, it's their chance to make a bit of history for themselves and for this football club.
"We always talk about opportunities and about being ready to take them, and I'm sure these lads will be."
Where to Watch Live
The match between Walsall and Chelsea kicks off at 7.45 pm BST (12.15 am IST, 3.45 pm ET)
Audience in India audience (and the rest of the subcontinent) can catch the game live & exclusive on Ten Cricket, with the option of online live streaming on Ten Sports Live.
There will be no TV broadcast of the game in the UK but the radio commentary will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live Extra and Chelsea TV (radio).
Bein Sports will show the game live in the USA, Australia, Canada, Middle East, North Africa, while the option to live stream is on Bein Sports Connect.
