Tonight’s clash at the Signal Iduna Park, between Borussia Dortmund ( the hosts) and the Italian brigade Atalanta, in the 1st leg of UEFA Champions League, Round of 16 playoff, promises to be a high-octane encounter.
Recent Form
Dortmund having a fine domestic season are second in the Bundesliga, only behind the prolific Bayern. The Prussians as they are nicknamed have lost just a single game in 22 matches in the Bundesliga, which speaks volumes of their form. Most recently they handed Mainz a 4-0 thrashing, with Serhou Guirassy scoring a brace. At home Dortmund will be very difficult to get through.
Atalanta, have had a mixed season. Though placed 6th in the Serie A, their recent form has been impressive with wins over Lazio, Cremonese and more importantly winning the quarter final against Juventus in the Coppa Italia. No wonder Atalanta have the ability to hurt Dortmund, even at Iduna Park.
Players to watch out for
Serhou Guirassy for Dortmund is a real threat. Julian Brandt upfront and the young Jobe Bellingham in the midfield have the pace to unsettle any defence.
Key defenders Nico Schlotterbeck and Niklas Süle are sidelined with injuries and with Captain Emre Can also a major doubt, the backline may just be a tad vulnerable for Dortmund.
Atalanta would be without their wall in injured Charles de Ketelaere. However, Gianluca Scamacca and Lazar Samardžić have been excellent in creating chances upfront. The moving out of Lookman to Atletico Madrid has created a bit of a void in the Atalanta lineup.
Expectations
It is going to be Dortmund’s game to lose. The Germans are in great form and should settle the game in their favour. Atalanta, however have the grit to take the fight to Dortmund and create an upset.
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