10/04/2024
The clash between Atlético Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals pits two teams that have already proven their worth in Europe on several occasions this season. The analysis takes into account the teams’ statistics, their current form, the status of key players and preliminary analysis from the experts.
Atlético Madrid have scored 19 goals so far in the Champions League, an average of 2.38 goals per game, while they have conceded 8 goals. The team’s possession rate and passing accuracy are lower than Dortmund’s, suggesting that the Spanish team relies more on fast counter attacks and physical play. In contrast, Dortmund have scored fewer goals (10 goals in 8 matches) but have also conceded fewer goals (only 5), underlining the defensive stability of the team.
Both teams are in varying form in the Champions League and in the domestic league. Atlético Madrid produced an impressive comeback against Inter, a testament to the team’s mental strength and Simeone’s tactical genius. Dortmund were also impressive against PSV and their Bundesliga form is strong, although their recent defeat to Stuttgart is a cause for concern.
Atlético have never lost at home in the knockout stages of the Champions League, a remarkable statistic. The Wanda Metropolitano is a very strong stadium and it will be a challenge for Dortmund to score here. However, Dortmund have shown that they can outclass themselves in the ‘group of death’ and should not be underestimated.
1) Considering Atlético’s excellent home performance, the team’s mental strength and Dortmund’s recent defeat, my prediction is thatAtlético Madrid have a better chance of winning, but a draw is also possible. The team under Simeone has the ability to bring their best in big matches and this meeting will be no exception.
2) In terms of the number of goals, given the defensive stability of both teams and their performances in the Champions League so far, it is likely that less than 3.5 goals will be scored in the match. Although Atlético have scored a lot of goals so far in the series, Dortmund’s defence has proven strong and this meeting promises to be more of a tactical battle than a goal-filled encounter.
In conclusion, the match promises to be a close contest, with Atlético Madrid having the chance to exploit their home strengths and win. Dortmund, however, have the chance to surprise, if they can exploit their fast counter attacks and defend effectively, they could even get a draw.