The Champions League ‘league phase’ has delivered plenty of thrilling moments over the past few months, but now it's set for a dramatic conclusion this week. With plenty of storylines still unfolding, one of the biggest focuses is on Barcelona. The Catalan giants are looking to maintain their winning streak in the competition as they prepare to face Atalanta on Wednesday.
As the Champions League 'league phase' nears its conclusion, both Barcelona and Atalanta find themselves in strong positions—but there’s still plenty at stake. Barcelona have already booked their place in the Last 16, winning six of their seven matches so far. Meanwhile, Atalanta have been one of the surprises of the tournament, currently sitting in a coveted top-eight spot that guarantees direct qualification to the Round of 16. However, their spot is far from secure. Facing Barcelona on Wednesday presents a daunting challenge for Gian Piero Gasperini's men. The Catalan side have been in blistering form, stringing together six consecutive UCL wins. A defeat for Atalanta could crush their hopes of a direct Last 16 berth.
That said, Atalanta will take confidence from their recent 5-0 demolition of Sturm Graz. Still, Barcelona represents an entirely different level of competition. There’s a glimmer of hope for La Dea, though – Hansi Flick might decide to rotate his squad and rest key players, with Barcelona already assured of progression. This could give Atalanta the opening they need, as only a win will guarantee their place among the top eight. For Barcelona, this game offers a chance to close out a stellar league phase campaign in style. For Atalanta, it’s all or nothing – a final roll of the dice to secure their place among Europe’s elite.
Date: 30th January 2025
Time: 1:30 AM (IST)
Stadium: Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, Garcia, Balde; Gavi, Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Raphinha, Lewandowski.
Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Scalvini; Ruggeri, Ederson, Pasalic, Zappacosta; Samardzic; Retegui, Lookman.
Goalkeeper: Marco Carnesecchi (Atalanta)
Defenders: Isak Hien (Atalanta), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), Alejandro Balde (Barcelona)
Midfielders: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Raul Bellanova (Atalanta), Pedri (Barcelona), Gavi (Barcelona)
Forwards: Raphinha (Barcelona), Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona), Mateo Retegui (Atalanta)