Atletico vs Dortmund

Champions League

In Wednesday's quarter-final clash of the Champions League, Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, both considered underdogs, vie for an advantage in the first leg at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Atletico Madrid, managed by Diego Simeone, earned a dramatic victory over last year's runners-up, Inter Milan, in the previous round, while Borussia Dortmund secured a 3-1 win against PSV Eindhoven. Atletico, often the bridesmaid in major competitions, faced a tough challenge in the last-16 showdown against Inter Milan. Despite initially trailing 2-0, they mounted a remarkable comeback, ultimately triumphing in a penalty shootout.

Simeone's squad has reached the Champions League quarter-finals for the third time in five years, but they haven't progressed further since the 2016-17 season. Their journey this season becomes even more crucial considering their inconsistent performance in La Liga, where they currently hold the fourth position.

Although Atletico's recent form has been somewhat patchy, they boast an impressive record in Champions League knockout matches at home. Conversely, Borussia Dortmund, led by Edin Terzic, topped their challenging group but have faltered in the quarter-finals in recent years.

Both teams face injury concerns heading into the match. Atletico's Thomas Lemar and Mario Hermoso are sidelined, while Dortmund's Ramy Bensebaini and Donyell Malen are doubtful due to injuries. However, key players like Antoine Griezmann and Jadon Sancho are expected to feature prominently.

Here are the possible starting lineups for both teams:

Atletico Madrid:

Goalkeeper: Oblak

Defenders: Witsel, Gimenez, Reinildo

Midfielders: Molina, Llorente, Koke, De Paul, Lino

Forwards: Griezmann, Morata

Borussia Dortmund:

Goalkeeper: Kobel

Defenders: Ryerson, Hummels, Schlotterbeck, Maatsen

Midfielders: Sabitzer, Can, Brandt

Forwards: Sancho, Fullkrug, Adeyemi