Barcelona and Atletico Madrid prepare to lock horns yet again, only this time it is in the Champions League quarter-finals!
The two Spanish giants played out a La Liga fixture at the Wanda Metropolitano on the weekend, with Barca winning 2-1 in their pursuit of another domestic title.
Can Diego Simeone’s side bounce back in Europe, or will Hansi Flick’s men inflict more misery on Atletico at the Camp Nou?
All questions will soon be answered, and below is our full sports betting preview, which features tips and the latest Champions League odds.
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Preview
Barca came from behind to win in Madrid last Saturday, Robert Lewandowski scoring a late winner off the bench after Marcus Rashford cancelled out Giuliano Simeone’s opener
The Catalans are now seven points clear of Real Madrid at the La Liga summit, and on a four-match winning run in all competitions.
Flick’s side thrashed Newcastle 7-2 at Camp Nou in their last-16 second leg, following that up with two more home wins vs Sevilla (5-2) and Rayo Vallecano (1-0).
As for Atletico, things have been a little tough of late. In fact, Simeone’s men have lost each of the last three games across all competitions.
The defeat to Barca was preceded by failures vs Tottenham (3-2) and Real Madrid (3-2), though the former had few consequences as Atleti still progressed to this stage with a 7-5 aggregate victory.
But the defensive resoluteness we have associated with Simeone’s team for so many years appears to have evaporated completely.
Atletico have conceded two or more goals in six of their last seven matches, a run which started with a 3-0 defeat to Barca in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.
Of course, a place in the final was still secured by Atleti courtesy of a 4-0 first-leg win, but the lack of clean sheets is surely cause for concern behind the scenes.
And even though Barca are missing Raphinha through injury, their attack is still stacked with talent – namely Lamine Yamal, who has 37 goal contributions across all competitions this season.
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Odds
*All odds are subject to change
Barcelona are the big favourites to claim a crucial first-leg win here, priced as low as 1.55. A victory for Atletico is at odds of 5.15, while the draw is 4.75.
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Betting Tips
Both teams to score – Yes @ 1.48
Games involving these teams are usually a gold mine for this BTTS pick. It has landed in four of Barca’s previous six games, as well as in five of Atletico’s last six. The odds on offer are not the best, but combining the selection with others in a Bet Builder could be the way to go.
Anytime goalscorer – Robert Lewandowski @ 1.98
Lewandowski came off the bench to score a huge goal in the La Liga title race, and he is almost certain to be reinstated to the Barca starting XI for this fixture. It perhaps has not been a vintage campaign from the Polish icon, but he has four goals in his last four Champions League games – including a brace in the huge victory over Newcastle last time out.
When you choose 777 Sport, you can enjoy a whole range of top-quality sports and markets. Whatever you choose, always remember to bet responsibly. Here at 777, player wellbeing is our number one priority – check out our Responsible Gambling tips and tools page for more information.
