RB Leipzig face a tough opening Champions League away to Atlético Madrid. With games against Juventus, Inter, and Liverpool to come, it’s crucial The Saxons get off to the perfect start on Thursday evening.
Is This Leipzig’s Time?
There has been a lot of talk and excitement around Leipzig in the Bundesliga already this season. Thanks to keeping the likes of Xavi Simons, Loïs Openda, and Benjamin Šeško, many believe that Leipzig has what it takes to finally challenge for the Bundesliga title.
After a solid start domestically (and finally beating Bayer Leverkusen), Leipzig now have to do it on Europe’s biggest stage. Head coach Marco Rose will have a full squad to choose from so expect a full-strength team on Thursday evening.
Leipzig have more than enough fire-power to get the better of Atlético but they’re going to have to be patient. Atlético are a well-organised team which could frustrate RB and in turn hurt them on the break. A recent parallel would be Leipzig’s 0-0 draw at home to Union Berlin. Despite nearly having 70% possession, Leipzig failed to break Union down and only found the target three times from 15 shots. That could be a worry for Rose’s side if Atlético play defensive.
Atlético’s Fortress
If Leipzig are to take all three points from their opening Champions League game, they’re going to have to do something that no team could last season.
Atlético were the only team in last season’s Champions League to have a 100% win record at home – five games, five wins. Additionally, Atlético are yet to lose in the competition to a side from Germany this century. During this time, they’ve won eight and drawn four – a remarkable run.
Atlético refreshed their squad last season and dramatically brought the team’s average age down. Newcomers Conor Gallagher and Julian Alvarez both scored last weekend and will most likely start on Thursday evening or certainly play a part in the fixture.
Predicted Line-ups (via Bundesliga)
Atlético – Oblak (c) – Llorente, Le Normand, Giménez, Azpilicueta, Lino – De Paul, Koke (c), Barrios – Griezmann, Alvarez.
Leipzig – Gulácsi (c) – Henrichs, Orbán, Castello, Raum – Haidara, Seiwald, Kampl, Xavi – Šeško, Openda.
GGFN | Jamie Allen
