Rakitic: We have to dominate Chelsea

Both Barcelona and Chelsea are gearing up for their Champions League round of 16 clash. Tuesday's game at Stamford Bridge is huge for both sides, with Barcelona looking to bring home three trophies this year, and Chelsea hoping that a Champions League run can redeem their poor league performance this season. Eden Hazard has made it clear that his side are going to give it "200%", and Antonio Conte has called key player Marcos Alonso back into the team for the game. 

Barcelona, who are unbeaten in La Liga this season, travel to London like they did in 2009, in the hope of extending their domination to Europe. Rakitic set out his gameplan for the clash in an interview with 'Marca'. 

"We have to try to control the pace of the game, to dominate," the Croatian stated. "[We must] press and not let them pressure us, knowing that they have players who know LaLiga and who know us very well.

"It's going to be a very tough game, very hard-working, but also very nice. We have to enjoy it to reach the next round."

The Barca player also acknowledged the progress that English teams have made in recent years, praising their work. 

"It is no coincidence that all English teams are there," he observed. "A few seasons ago there was one or none. They have worked, they have improved and now they are there in a dominant way."

Rakitic will hope that there will be one fewer English side in the competition by the time the final whistle is blown on the return leg at the Nou Camp in March...