Atletico Madrid return to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano with a two-goal cushion, but the tie remains delicately poised. Diego Simeone's reaction at the final whistle in Barcelona revealed as much, the Argentine walked straight down the tunnel, not pausing to celebrate what was his first victory at Camp Nou in 14 years in charge.
The message from the Atleti boss was clear, this is only half-time.
Pau Cubarsi's red card and Atletico's lethal efficiency saw the visitors secure a 2-0 victory in the first leg with goals from Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth.
Barcelona, though, have built a formidable European identity around improbable ‘Remontadas'. The 6-1 against PSG in 2017 remains the benchmark, while AC Milan (2013) and Chelsea (2000) have also felt the full force of a second-leg resurgence at Camp Nou.
Hansi Flick's side come into the fixture on the back of a strong domestic run, one that includes a come-from-behind 2-1 victory at this venue earlier this month and a 4-1 victory over Espanyol that sees them sit nine points clear at the top of La Liga.
The return of Pedri and Frenkie de Jong bolsters midfield control, though Pau Cubarsi's suspension and injuries to Raphinha and Andreas Christensen leave gaps to manage. Barcelona dominated possession in the first leg but lacked incision, managing 15 shots without reward.
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Atletico, meanwhile, hold the advantage but not complete control. Simeone is dealing with defensive concerns as David Hancko is likely out, while Jose Maria Gimenez faces a late fitness test and Marc Pubill is suspended for an accumulation of yellow cards.
Despite that, Atletico's efficiency in the first leg, scoring twice from just three shots on target, highlighted their ability to execute under pressure. Julian Alvarez, with nine Champions League goals this season, remains their key attacking outlet, alongside Antoine Griezmann, who is approaching the final stretch of his Atletico career.
Venue And Match Timing (IST)
The Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg will be played at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, starting at 12:30 a.m. Indian Standard Time on Wednesday.
Predicted Lineups
- Atletico Madrid (5-3-2): Jan Oblak; Nahuel Molina, Axel Witsel, Robin Le Normand, Clement Lenglet, Reinildo Mandava; Marcos Llorente, Rodrigo De Paul, Koke (c); Antoine Griezmann, Julian Alvarez
- Barcelona (4-3-3): Marc-Andre ter Stegen (c); Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Inigo Martinez, Alejandro Balde; Pedri, Ilkay Gundogan, Fermin Lopez; Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Marcus Rashford
How To Watch Live Telecast In India?
The Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona match will be telecasted live on the Sony Sports Network television channel.
How To Watch Live Streaming In India?
The match will be available for live streaming on the SonyLIV app and website (subscription required).
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