Atalanta BC faces a challenging task as they host Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of their Champions League playoff on Wednesday, trailing 2-0 from the first leg. Despite finishing higher than Dortmund in the league phase, Atalanta’s hopes of progressing to the last 16 hinge on overcoming this deficit at home in Bergamo.
The Italian side, despite their strong domestic performance this February, suffered a setback in Germany last week with goals from Serhou Guirassy and Maximilian Beier securing a victory for Dortmund. Atalanta struggled offensively during that match, managing only seven shots, their lowest in 42 Champions League encounters.
Historically, Atalanta would need to break a significant trend, as no team has progressed through a knockout stage after losing by two or more goals in the first leg since Liverpool’s stunning comeback against Barcelona in 2019. Nevertheless, Atalanta, having clinched their place in the Coppa Italia semi-finals and undefeated in Serie A for the calendar year with eight wins and two draws, aim to conjure more heroics.
Dortmund, meanwhile, is in formidable form, having only lost once in their last 30 Bundesliga matches, although they find themselves eight points behind league leaders Bayern Munich. This weekend, Dortmund will also face Bayern in a crucial match, and their recent performance against RB Leipzig, where they salvaged a late draw, showcases their resilience under pressure.
Dortmund’s record in UEFA competitions when leading by two goals from the first leg is strong, having won all ten such ties previously. However, they have been vulnerable on Italian soil, losing five of their last eight visits to Italy, which could give Atalanta some hope despite their challenging position.
In terms of team news, Atalanta will miss key forwards Giacomo Raspadori and Charles De Ketelaere but otherwise has a fully fit squad. Borussia Dortmund may welcome back defender Nico Schlotterbeck, adding to their defensive options, yet they will need to stay vigilant as Atalanta seeks to capitalize on home advantage.
The matchup has all the makings of a thrilling contest, with Atalanta motivated to overturn the deficit and continue their European journey. As the teams prepare to clash, football fans can expect an intense battle at Bergamo.