Chelsea FC are set to return to Champions League action against FC Copenhagen knowing the competition represents their last realistic hope of winning any silverware this season.

For the hosts FC Copenhagen, it will be the first game of the new season following a mid-season break and the first time a Danish team plays in the first leg of their Champions League, last 16 tie.

While there is a huge difference in experience between the two with Copenhagen in uncharted territory up against a club with five semi-finals in the last seven years, Chelsea's current malaise suggests Carlo Ancelotti's side could be in for a testing night in the Danish capital.

Copenhagen have been thorny opponents for some of Europe's big names in recent years. They were undefeated at home in Group D this season, holding Barcelona to a 1-1 draw, while they also enjoyed a victory over Manchester United a few seasons ago.

Ancelotti praised Copenhagen's "fantastic" organisation and team work.

With Chelsea's Premier League title hopes all but gone and defeat by Everton ending their dream of a third consecutive FA Cup, Ancelotti is now under pressure to deliver Europe's biggest club prize for the first time.

"It could be the best season, maybe it could be the worst. I don't know but wait, wait. Chelsea has not died - it's still alive," Ancelotti said.