Jupiler Pro League champions Club Brugge travel to Bergamo with Champions League fate in their own hands.
Nicky Hayen’s side won the first leg of this play-off tie at the Jan Breydel Stadium by a scoreline of 2-1 thanks to a late and controversial penalty by Gustaf Nilsson.
Can Club Brugge maintain their advantage? That question and many, many more will be answered tonight as the Champions League returns to our television screens.
Below is a full match preview, complete with some sports betting tips which can be used in a football bet.
Atalanta vs Club Brugge Preview
This really is a huge match for Club Brugge after their drop off in the Pro League.
The defending champions are now eight points behind runaway leaders Genk after a 2-2 draw with STVV last weekend.
So maintaining their Champions League status is vital for confidence levels ahead of the predictable chaos of the Pro League’s Championship Play-Offs.
Atalanta are also in need of a statement win here after a 0-0 home draw with Cagliari on the weekend.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side are still in the Serie A title race, as they are only five points behind leaders Napoli, but need to rediscover their best form – and quickly!
Star man Ademola Lookman’s continued absence has not helped matters and the Nigeria international is a doubt for tonight’s game, as he is still struggling with a knee injury.
But while that is potentially a huge blow for Atalanta and their Champions League hopes, it could be great news for Club Brugge’s stubborn defence.
Atalanta vs Club Brugge Odds
*All odds are subject to change
Atalanta are huge favourites in this clash at odds of 1.50. Club Brugge are priced at 6.30, while the draw after 90 minutes (a result which would take the visitors through to the last 16) is very good value for money at 4.50.
Atalanta vs Club Brugge Betting Tips
Mateo Retegui to score anytime @ 2.05
Retegui has been a rich source of goals for Atalanta throughout this season. The Italy international is Serie A’s leading scorer with 20 in 23 appearances, so it should come as no surprise that we are backing him to breach Club Brugge’s defence later this evening.
Atalanta to score over 2.5 goals @ 2.55
If Atalanta manage to get a goal early on, it will likely be a very long night for the visitors. When the Italian side are in full flow, it really is a joy to watch. Gasperini’s team are currently the second-top scorers in Serie A and were one of only six teams to net 20 or more times in the League Phase of this competition.
Atalanta to be winning at half-time and full-time @ 1.96
A dominant Atalanta display on home soil looks the most likely outcome, so if you want to boost your odds on a victory for the Italians, having them to be winning at the two most crucial stages of the match looks a good road to follow.
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