Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham Hotspur

Atlético Madrid return to the UCL round of 16 looking to extend a strong record at this stage of the competition, with Diego Simeone’s side reaching the knockout phase for the seventh time since the 2018/19 campaign. They have progressed from this round in three of their previous six attempts during that period, including twice against English opposition. The Spanish outfit head into the first leg in excellent recent form. Atlético have won four of their last five matches in all competitions [WWWLW], a run that has helped them maintain third place in La Liga while also securing a place in the Copa del Rey final. Their latest outing saw them edge past Real Sociedad 3-2 in an entertaining league clash last weekend. Before that, the Rojiblancos confirmed their place in the round of 16 with an impressive victory over Club Brugge in the knockout phase play-offs. A 4-1 triumph in the second leg sealed a 7-4 aggregate win, highlighting the attacking efficiency that has complemented their typically solid defensive structure. Interestingly, this encounter marks the first competitive meeting between Atlético and Tottenham since the 1962/63 European Cup Winners’ Cup final, where Spurs recorded a memorable 5-1 victory. The hosts’ recent record against English opposition in the UCL, however, has been less convincing, with their only win in the last ten such matches coming during the 2021/22 campaign [1W, 2D, 7L]. Pablo Barrios was absent during their weekend victory, and he remains the main injury concern ahead of this clash. Alexander Sørloth and Ademola Lookman are expected to lead their charge in the final third when a 4—4—2 formation is employed.

Tottenham, meanwhile, arrive in Madrid struggling badly in domestic competition. Igor Tudor’s side sit just one point above the Premier League relegation zone following a 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace. Despite their league struggles, the Lilywhites have found some solace in European competition. They finished strongly in the UCL league phase, winning their final three matches without conceding a goal to secure fourth place in the standings. Injuries have complicated matters for Spurs. Their lengthy absentee list includes Djed Spence, James Maddison and Radu Drăgușin, among others. Dominic Solanke is expected to spearhead their attacking line in a 3—4—2—1 pattern.