Atletico Madrid will look to secure their place in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League when they travel to Austria for an exciting match against Red Bull Salzburg. For Salzburg, this final game of the league phase is a matter of pride, with just three points from seven matches.
After a promising qualification campaign, Salzburg's hopes of reaching the knockout rounds have been dashed, as they’ve struggled in the group stage with just one win and six losses. The Austrian side will be desperate for their first home win in the group stage, although this will be a challenging task against an Atletico side brimming with confidence.
Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, are already assured of some knockout football after accumulating five wins and two losses in their campaign. Despite a tough start, Diego Simeone’s team found their stride, with crucial victories, including a dramatic 2-1 win over Bayer Leverkusen. With the knockout rounds in sight, Atletico will aim for a comfortable victory to end the group phase on a high.
Team News:
- Red Bull Salzburg:
- Karim Konate (knee) and Maurits Kjaergaard (ankle) remain sidelined.
- Left-back Daouda Guindo is doubtful with a knee issue.
- Maximiliano Caufriez and Karim Onisiwo are unavailable for this match.
- Atletico Madrid:
- Javi Galan is out for up to four weeks due to an ankle injury.
- Pablo Barrios is suspended following a red card against Leverkusen.
- Clement Lenglet returns to the squad after serving a one-match ban.
Possible Starting Lineups:
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Red Bull Salzburg: Blaswich; Dedic, Baidoo, Blank, Terzic; Yeo, Bidstrup, Capaldo, Gloukh; Daghim, Nene.
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Atletico Madrid: Oblak; Molina, Le Normand, Azpilicueta; Simeone, Koke, De Paul, Lino; Griezmann, Lino.
Prediction: Given Salzburg's struggles and Atletico's superior form in recent European matches, we predict a 2-0 win for Atletico Madrid. Their attacking prowess and solid defense should be enough to secure all three points in Austria.
Conclusion: This game offers Salzburg one last chance to register a win in the group stage, but Atletico Madrid's quality and recent form make them the favorites to come out on top. Atletico fans will be optimistic about their side’s chances of continuing their Champions League campaign with a victory here.
