Atletico Madrid host Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday night in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League clash. Diego Simeone’s men will aim to bounce back from their surprising defeat to Leganes on Saturday, ending their impressive 15-match winning streak. Meanwhile, Leverkusen, under Xabi Alonso, are on a stunning 12-game winning run in all competitions. Here’s everything you need to know about this crucial Gameweek 7 encounter.
Recent Form
Atletico Madrid: Despite their recent setback, Atletico Madrid remain a formidable force at home. They sit one point off the eighth spot in the Champions League standings and are keen to secure automatic qualification. Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez have been pivotal this season, combining for eight goals in the competition so far.
Bayer Leverkusen: Leverkusen have been equally dominant, boasting 13 points from six matches in the league phase. Their latest triumph, a 3-1 victory over Borussia Monchengladbach, highlights their strong form. Florian Wirtz’s contributions have been monumental, with five goals in the Champions League and consistent performances in the Bundesliga.
Team News
Atletico Madrid:
Jose Gimenez’s return is imminent after a muscular injury, but Tuesday might come too soon.
Alexander Sorloth remains doubtful with a muscle injury, leaving Griezmann and Alvarez to lead the attack.
Bayer Leverkusen:
Xabi Alonso will miss Martin Terrier, who was injured against Monchengladbach.
Injuries to Jeanuel Belocian, Victor Boniface, and Amine Adli limit Alonso’s options. Jeremie Frimpong, however, is set to feature prominently with his four Champions League assists this season.
Predicted Lineups
Atletico Madrid (4-4-2): Oblak; Llorente, Lenglet, Le Normand, Galan; Simeone, Barrios, De Paul, Gallagher; Griezmann, Alvarez
Bayer Leverkusen (4-2-3-1): Hradecky; Mukiele, Tah, Tapsoba, Hincapie; Palacios, Xhaka; Frimpong, Wirtz, Grimaldo; Schick
Key Players to Watch
Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid): The Frenchman’s experience and knack for crucial goals make him a key asset. A goal on Tuesday would move him into the top 20 all-time Champions League scorers alongside Sergio Aguero.
Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen): Wirtz is in scintillating form, with five Champions League goals and a standout performance in Leverkusen’s weekend win. His creativity and finishing will be pivotal.
Match Details
Venue: Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Madrid, Spain
Kick-Off Time: 20:00 BST, Tuesday, January 21, 2025
How to Watch: TNT Sports 2 (UK viewers)
