What Happened
Atalanta faces Borussia Dortmund in a crucial Champions League play-off match at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund, at 20:00 GMT. The first leg saw Atalanta suffer a 2-0 defeat, putting them at a disadvantage as they prepare for the second leg on February 25. Atalanta’s coach, Raffaele Palladino, is forced to make significant changes due to injuries, with key players Giacomo Raspadori and Charles De Ketelaere sidelined for at least a month.
Why It Matters
This match is critical for Atalanta, who aim to reach the knockout stage of the Champions League for the third time. Despite a strong start to the tournament, recent back-to-back defeats have jeopardized their chances. Dortmund, on the other hand, are in a strong position after their first-leg victory and are looking to capitalize on Atalanta’s injury woes. Both teams have been dealing with player absences, with Dortmund missing several key players, including Niklas Sule and Emre Can.
What’s Next
As the teams prepare for the second leg, Atalanta will need to overcome their injury challenges and find a way to score against a formidable Dortmund side. The outcome of this match will determine whether Atalanta can turn the tie around and advance to the Round of 16, while Dortmund seeks to maintain their momentum and secure their place in the next stage of the competition.
