Atletico Madrid faces Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League knockout round play-offs on Wednesday, aiming for a spot in the last 16.
Diego Simeone’s team arrives in Belgium after an inconsistent period. They achieved a 4-0 victory over Barcelona in the Copa del Rey on February 12, but suffered two losses in La Liga against Real Betis (1-0) and Rayo Vallecano (3-0), highlighting their uneven form.
Their Champions League journey has been similar, marked by a surprising 2-1 home defeat to Bodo/Glimt in their last league-phase match, which prevented automatic qualification for the next round.
Atletico Madrid team news
Midfield strength is reduced as Diego Simeone announced that Pablo Barrios is unavailable due to a right thigh injury. Simeone remarked on the impact of this absence, saying: “There’s no substitute for Pablo. Johnny’s injury hurts us.”
Nicolas Gonzalez is also out, still recovering from a muscle issue in his thigh, which is expected to keep him sidelined until March.
Atletico has indicated that he will follow a rehabilitation program, with his return dependent on his recovery speed.
In attack, Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth are expected to start, leading the offense from the beginning. Antoine Griezmann might start on the bench and could be brought in later for creativity or a late goal.
January signing Ademola Lookman is in good form and will look to make an impact with his direct approach if called upon.
Atletico Madrid predicted lineup
Possible Atletico Madrid starting XI: Oblak; Molina, Hancko, Pubill, Ruggeri; Lookman, Koke, Llorente, Simeone; Sorloth, Alvarez
When will the match kick off?
The match is set to begin at 8pm BST on Wednesday, 18th February.
How to watch Club Brugge vs Atletico Madrid?
Viewers in the UK can watch Club Brugge vs Atletico Madrid live on TNT Sports 3, with streaming available on discovery+ and the discovery+ app.
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