Champions League Clash: Atalanta vs. Club Brugge – Match Preview, Predictions & Betting Tips

The UEFA Champions League knockout phase continues as Atalanta BC hosts Club Brugge KV at Gewiss Stadium on February 18, 2025. With the Belgian side carrying a narrow 2-1 lead from the first leg, Atalanta will need a strong performance at home to keep their European dreams alive. Here’s a detailed look at the upcoming encounter, including team form, key players, head-to-head history, predicted lineups, and expert betting tips.

First Leg Recap

In the first leg, Club Brugge secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory in Belgium. Goals from Ferran Jutglà and Hans Vanaken propelled the hosts to an important win, while Atalanta managed to pull one back through Mateo Retegui. Despite pushing for an equalizer, Atalanta struggled to break down Brugge’s organized defensive unit, leaving them with work to do in the second leg.

Team Form & Player Conditions

Atalanta BC

Atalanta enters this match with a mix of confidence and concern. They recently endured a frustrating goalless draw against Cagliari in Serie A, highlighting their attacking struggles due to injuries. Key forwards Ademola Lookman and Gianluca Scamacca remain sidelined, while midfielder Daniel Maldini is also unavailable. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini will need to find tactical solutions to unlock Club Brugge’s defense.

Club Brugge KV

Club Brugge, on the other hand, has been in solid form, carrying momentum from their first-leg triumph. They have no major injury concerns, allowing them to field a full-strength squad. With a one-goal advantage, the Belgian side will likely adopt a balanced approach, looking to defend deep while exploiting counter-attacking opportunities.

Head-to-Head History

These two teams have had limited encounters in European competitions. The first leg marked their inaugural competitive meeting, with Club Brugge taking a 2-1 advantage. This return leg promises to be another thrilling contest as Atalanta aims to overturn the deficit and Brugge looks to hold firm.

Predicted Lineups

Atalanta BC (3-4-2-1)

• Goalkeeper: Rui Patrício
• Defenders: Stefan Posch, Isak Hien, Berat Djimsiti
• Midfielders: Raoul Bellanova, Éderson, Marten de Roon, Matteo Ruggeri; Charles De Ketelaere, Mario Pašalić
• Forward: Mateo Retegui

Club Brugge KV (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Simon Mignolet
• Defenders: Jorne Spileers, Brandon Mechele, Joel Ordonez, Maxim De Cuyper
• Midfielders: Ardon Jashari, Raphael Onyedika; Thian Cisse, Hans Vanaken, Christos Tzolis
• Forward: Ferran Jutglà

Key Player Statistics

Atalanta BC

• Mateo Retegui – The Argentine striker has been in fine form, recently scoring four goals in a league match against Hellas Verona. His finishing ability will be crucial for Atalanta’s comeback hopes.
• Charles De Ketelaere – Facing his former club, the Belgian playmaker has been directly involved in nine goals in this Champions League campaign, making him a vital creative force.

Club Brugge KV

• Ferran Jutglà – A key figure in Brugge’s attack, Jutglà netted in the first leg and will be looking to make an impact again.
• Hans Vanaken – The experienced midfielder remains Brugge’s playmaker, dictating tempo and providing crucial attacking contributions.

Betting Tips & Score Prediction

Atalanta’s home advantage makes them favorites to win the second leg, but their injury issues could hinder their scoring efficiency. Club Brugge’s solid defensive organization and counter-attacking ability could cause problems for the Italian side.

• Both Teams to Score: Yes
• Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Under 2.5
• Anytime Goalscorer: Charles De Ketelaere

Final Score Prediction: Atalanta BC 1-1 Club Brugge KV

A draw would see Club Brugge advance on aggregate, capitalizing on their first-leg advantage. However, expect a tightly contested battle as Atalanta fights to stay in the competition.