Champions League Knockout Stage Continues
The UEFA Champions League knockout phase is underway, with Borussia Dortmund set to face Atalanta in a play-off first leg match. Both clubs are entering the European fixture in strong domestic form, setting up a highly anticipated contest as the competition heats up.
- The only prior competitive meetings between Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta occurred in the 2017/18 UEFA Europa League round of 32, where Dortmund advanced with a 4-3 aggregate score. - In the first leg of their current knockout phase play-off, Borussia Dortmund secured a 2-0 victory at home against Atalanta. Serhou Guirassy contributed a goal and an assist in the match. - This marks Dortmund's tenth consecutive season in the Champions League proper and their fourth straight appearance in the knockout stages. - Atalanta is participating in the knockout phase play-offs for the second season in a row. The Italian club has a strong recent record against German teams, remaining unbeaten in their last four away matches in Germany (3 wins, 1 draw). - Dortmund's coach, Niko Kovač, acknowledged Atalanta's strength, noting their Europa League victory two years prior and describing the matchup as a "50:50" chance. - Atalanta's coach, Raffaele Palladino, emphasized the motivating atmosphere of playing in a prestigious stadium and urged his team to play with courage. - Borussia Dortmund is currently dealing with injuries to four central defenders, including Nico Schlotterbeck, which may necessitate tactical adjustments. - The second leg of this play-off tie is scheduled to take place on February 25th.
