∙ Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2025
∙ Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM UTC
∙ Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys
The UEFA Champions League 2024-25 is gradually progressing towards the knockout rounds, with the fate of some teams for the Round of 16 already decided while others are still fighting.
In this context, FC Barcelona and Atalanta are set to face each other, each with their own unique circumstances. FC Barcelona has already gifted some legendary moments in this version of the Champions League by winning 4-5, even after standing two goals behind in the final 15 minutes.
With that, they have secured their spot at the top with a guarantee of qualification for the Round of 16! Thus, the team is in a comfortable position at number 2 with 18 points each and will face Atalanta, who is in number 7.
As Arsenal and Inter Milan are close to them with 16 points each, Barcelona won’t relax as they are desperate to win the title this time after 2015 when the Argentine legend Messi was with them!
And what about Atalanta? Well, they have secured at least the Playoffs! So, if they can perform incredibly well, there is a high chance to confirm a spot in the Round of 16. So, they will take every possible chance to win this opportunity. Even a draw can help them to strengthen, too!
Remember that issues like matchups in the knockout stage and others are yet to be finalized; therefore, each match is equally essential for Barca and all others.
League Standings: Banrcelona is in 2nd Place with 18 points and Atalanta is in 7th with 14 points.Barcelona needs to keep their position to become comfortable opponents in the next phase, while Atalanta needs to stay in the competition by outperforming Barcelona!
Barcelona vs Atalanta Timeline (H2h)
After the 5-4 victory over Benfica, FC Barcelona was boosted with confidence as the ticket for Round 16 was confirmed. On the other hand, Atalanta is also happy to secure a spot, at least in the Playoffs.
Their recent victory of 5-0 against Strum Graz not only solidified their position in the league but also marked a milestone in the club’s glorious journey.
Ademola Lookman, Charles De Ketelaere, and others have been instrumental in their attacking play, contributing significantly to their success and painting the beauty of attacking football.
Interestingly, the 29th of January is the first match for these two teams to meet in the UEFA Champions League. However, here is a table showing a summarized comparison of these two teams’ recent performance in the last five face-to-face battles:
|
Date |
Team Name |
Score |
Team Name |
|
05.02.2021 |
Barcelona |
3-3 |
Atalanta |
|
27.01.2021 |
Barcelona |
1-0 |
Atalanta |
|
08.01.2021 |
Barcelona |
2-1 |
Atalanta |
|
30.12.2020 |
Barcelona |
3-2 |
Atalanta |
|
21.12.2020 |
Barcelona |
4-2 |
Atalanta |
Barcelona dominates almost every match, and Atalanta holds it tight to minimize the damage! But wait! The stats are from the period when Barcelona passed its golden age! In the last few years, this legendary team has gone through many ups and downs and has now started to regain its pride. So, the stat may not show you the accurate picture!
Barcelona Team News
Barcelona is having a tough time as some players Pedri,Dani Olmo, Inigo Martinez, Marc Bernal, and Marc-Andre, suffer from injuries and have a high chance of missing this match.
Atalanta Team News
The injury problem also remains. Gianluca Semacca, a striker, and Kouakou Odilon Dorgeless Kossounou, a reliable center back, will miss this match because of injury.
Barcelona Probable Lineup & Tactics
szczesny,Ronald Araújo, Jules Koundé, Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde,Frenkie de Jong, Casado, Gavi, Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha
Under Hans-Dieter Flick’s guidance, Barcelona has adopted a more direct and high-pressing style of play. This approach focuses on quick transitions and exploiting spaces behind the opposition’s defense.
Barcelona’s midfield trio of Frenkie de Jong, Casado, and Gavi will be crucial in controlling the tempo and breaking down Atalanta’s defense.
Atalanta bc Probable Lineup & Tactics
Camesecchi,Rafael Tolói, Scalvini, Djimsiti, Kolasinac,Marten de Roon, Ederson, Brescianini,Lookman, Rategui, Samardzic
Atalanta, known for their attacking flair, will likely employ a high-intensity pressing game to disrupt Barcelona’s build-up play.
Their forwards Rategui, Samardzic will be key in capitalizing on any defensive lapses. Atalanta’s midfielders, Djimsiti, Kolasinac must be vigilant in offensive and defensive transitions.
Player battles
-
Robert Lewandowski vs. Rafael Tolói
Rafael Tolói will probably face the ultimate challenge of defending Robert Lewandowski from his sudden attacks. This battle will determine whether Barcelona’s attacks are successful.
- Raphinha vs. Djimsiti
Raphina is good at cutting inside from the wings and creating chances for the team. This is the test for Djimsiti: tackle him without committing foul!
Where To Watch Barcelona vs Atalanta Match
- Paramount+: Available in many European countries.
- DAZN: Available in Portugal and other regions.
- Sony Ten & Sony Liv: Available in South Asian countries
- Fuji TV: Available in Japan
Besides, sports channels of different countries will broadcast this match.
All The Way Barcelona vs Atalanta Match
While it’s home match for FC Barcelona, and they hold the second position in the league table, Atalanta is expected to face challenges and must do something compelling to score goals against Barcelona.
Conversely, Atalanta has made steady progress in recent years. Experts have praised their attacking style against opponents. Therefore, Atalanta’s aggression versus FC Barcelona’s high pressing will surely entertain fans on January 29th.
Although this match won’t determine anything in the finals, both teams have much to gain from as they progress in the tournament.
