Match Overview
Atletico Madrid will host Lille on Wednesday in the Champions League, with both teams coming off contrasting performances in their previous matches. Atletico faced a crushing defeat against Benfica, losing 4-0, while Lille managed a remarkable victory against Real Madrid, propelling them into a joint position on the points table with three points each.
Atletico’s nine-game unbeaten run this season was snapped after a second-half collapse against Benfica. Conceding four goals, including two penalties, highlighted their defensive struggles, as they have let in goals in each of their last six Champions League games. Atletico’s ability to reach the knockout stages depends heavily on their home form, where they are currently unbeaten in 11 Champions League games at the Metropolitano. A win against Lille would set a new club record for consecutive home wins in this competition, breaking a record that has stood since 1966.
Lille’s win over Real Madrid came after a penalty awarded for a handball by Eduardo Camavinga, which Jonathan David converted to secure the lead. This triumph was a massive boost for Lille, who have won four of their last five group games in the Champions League. However, their struggles away from home, coupled with their inability to score in three of their last four away fixtures, pose a significant challenge.
Team News
Atletico will be without key players Robin Le Normand, Cesar Azpilicueta, and Marcos Llorente due to injuries. Meanwhile, Thomas Lemar is back in contention after recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon. Alexander Sorloth, who has been in great form, will likely start after scoring twice last weekend, with Antoine Griezmann continuing his role as the top scorer.
Lille has its own injury woes, missing Tiago Santos, Ismaily, Hakon Arnar Haraldsson, and Ethan Mbappe. However, Ngal’ayel Mukau returned to action in their recent game against Monaco, and Benjamin Andre is back from suspension. Lille’s standout performer, Jonathan David, will be key to their attack, supported by Edon Zhegrova, who has been effective in dribbling and scoring.
Atletico’s strength at home and Lille’s poor travel form make the hosts the favorites, especially given Lille’s vulnerability in losing possession in dangerous areas.
Predicted Lineups
Atletico Madrid: Oblak; Molina, Witsel, Gimenez, Lenglet, Galan; De Paul, Koke, Barrios; Griezmann, Sorloth
Lille: Chevalier; Meunier, Diakite, Alexsandro, Gudmundsson; Bouaddi, Andre; Zhegrova, Angel Gomes, Cabella; David
