Atalanta are determined to overturn last week’s contentious defeat as they host Club Brugge in the second leg of their Champions League play-off on Tuesday, 18 February. With the away goals rule no longer in play, a commanding win in Bergamo is essential for La Dea to progress to the round of 16.
After a match in Bruges where Atalanta managed an equalizer before Club Brugge clinched a controversial 2-1 victory through a late penalty decision, both sides now seek redemption. While Atalanta struggled to break down a resilient Cagliari in their most recent outing, Club Brugge snatched a crucial point with a late surge against STVV. Both teams, who are also vying for domestic honors, are eager to secure a decisive win in this high-stakes tie.
Match Details:
- Date: Tuesday, 18 February
- Venue: Gewiss Stadium, Bergamo, Italy
- Kick-off: 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Officials: Referee Felix Zwayer (GER) with VAR managed by Bastian Dankert (GER)
Historically, Club Brugge holds an advantage from their previous encounter, but with the home crowd energizing the atmosphere in Bergamo, Atalanta is determined to dictate play despite recent offensive challenges.
Team Updates:
Atalanta could receive a significant boost from the return of forward Ademola Lookman, whose pace and creativity might be the catalyst in attack. Midfielder Sead Kolasinac is also back in training following the team’s last match. However, the hosts will miss Gianluca Scamacca, sidelined with a hamstring injury after his ACL comeback, while Giorgio Scalvini, Odilon Kossounou, and Daniel Maldini remain uncertain.
For Club Brugge, manager Nicky Hayen is expected to maintain his regular lineup. With only Bjorn Meiler missing, the visitors will look to key attacking options like Jutgla, with tactical adjustments possibly involving the return of Christos Tzolis and Raphael Onyedinka.
Predicted Lineups:
Atalanta (3-4-2-1):
Patricio; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Zappacosta; Lookman, De Ketelaere; Retegui.
Club Brugge (4-2-3-1):
Mignolet; Seys, Ordonez, Mechele, De Cuyper; Onyedika, Yashari; Taibi, Vanaken, Tzolis; Jutgla.
Expect a tactical duel as Club Brugge’s disciplined counter-attacks face off against Atalanta’s home flair. While Brugge’s resolute performance in Bruges sets the benchmark, Atalanta’s creative spark, especially from Lookman, could be decisive.
Our prediction is a 3-1 victory for Atalanta as they look to overcome their recent setback and secure advancement in the competition.