Today on LiveScore: Champions League action and an exclusive interview

The Champions League is back on the menu this evening with two more last-16 clashes to enjoy.

Reigning champions Chelsea continue the defence of their crown at home to Lille, while Villarreal host Juventus.

We also have an exclusive interview and a bucketload of features for your reading pleasure. 

Champions League fever

If Thomas Tuchel’s men are to have any hope of defending their crown this season, Antonio Rudiger is one man who needs to be at his brilliant best.

The German defender, 28, has been integral for the Blues since his compatriot took charge in January 2021 — but will he still be plying his trade at Stamford Bridge next season?

Ahead of the first leg of their last-16 showdown with Lille, we take a look at why tying Rudiger down to a new deal is essential business for Chelsea.

Juventus are hunting a first Champions League crown since 1996.

And although they are not among the favourites for glory, the Old Lady will take encouragement from Chelsea’s surprise triumph last term.

As Max Allegri’s men head to Spain to face Villarreal this evening, we turn the spotlight on Alvaro Morata, who is on loan from Atletico Madrid. 

With Dusan Vlahovic’s recent arrival suggesting Morata's days in Turin may be numbered, is a summer scramble for the centre forward’s signature on the cards?

Benfica academy exclusive

Portuguese giants Benfica have a fine reputation for bringing future superstars through their academy, with Bernardo Silva, Joao Felix and Ruben Dias among their recent exports.

Ahead of their Champions League clash with Ajax tomorrow night, LiveScore sat down for an exclusive chat with academy technical coordinator Rodrigo Magalhaes.

During an intriguing interview, Magalhaes shared some of the secrets behind Benfica’s success and reflected on his experiences working alongside youngsters now considered among the world's best.

More to get stuck into

As well as previewing this evening’s action, we have plenty of other features for you to enjoy.

New signing Dejan Kulusevski got off the mark for Tottenham as Antonio Conte's men grabbed a thrilling 3-2 victory over Premier League leaders Manchester City last Saturday.

Having set up Harry Kane’s dramatic late winner, could the 21-year-old Swede prove to be the missing piece of Conte’s puzzle in North London?

Christopher Nkunku continues to impress for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, netting twice in their 6-1 win at Hertha Berlin last Sunday.

With reports linking the 24-year-old ace with a move to Manchester United, we take a closer look at the in-form Frenchman.

Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa reign got off to an encouraging start — but a run of one win in eight matches across all competitions is proving cause for concern.

With a trip to Brighton next up for the Villans on Saturday, we consider what Gerrard can do to get his team firing on all cylinders again.

Before you go

Our daily Transfer Talk column is on hand to round up the best whispers from football’s rumour mill, with today’s edition leading on Chelsea stepping up interest in Wolves defender Max Kilman.

Meanwhile, LiveScore Daily is updated throughout the day to bring you Tuesday’s key headlines from the football world in bite-sized chunks.