On Tuesday 18 February at the Gewiss Stadium, Atalanta and Club Brugge face a crucial crossroads in their season: the second leg of the Champions League playoff, which grants access to the Round of 16. The tie starts from a 2-1 advantage for the Belgian side, a match where Atalanta had initially equalized through Pasalic after Jutgla's opener, only to be defeated late on by a penalty converted by striker Nilsson. This controversial penalty decision sparked the fury of Atalanta’s coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who did not hold back in his post-match press conference, criticizing the refereeing decisions. Atalanta has repeatedly shown in past seasons that they can overturn difficult situations, and once again, they have all the credentials to mount a comeback. The Bergamaschi must win by at least two goals to advance directly to the Round of 16, where they would meet either Aston Villa or Lille. If they win by just one goal, the match will go to extra time and possibly penalties. Meanwhile, Club Brugge needs only a draw or a narrow loss to secure a historic qualification that seemed unlikely just a few weeks ago.

Atalanta's shape and statistics

After a strong start to the season, Atalanta's form has declined in recent weeks. Their last five matches across all competitions have resulted in one win, two draws, and two losses. In their latest Serie A fixture, they were held to a 0-0 home draw against Cagliari, a result that still keeps them in third place in the league table.

One major factor behind Atalanta’s recent dip in form has been the injury to Ademola Lookman, who is expected to return just in time for the clash against Club Brugge. Playing at home is also a significant advantage for Gasperini’s side, as they have lost only once in four Champions League group stage home matches, with that single defeat coming against Real Madrid.

Club Brugge's shape and statistics

Club Brugge enters this decisive fixture in excellent form. Their last five matches across all competitions have yielded two wins, two draws, and just one defeat. Despite drawing in their last Belgian Pro League match, they currently sit second in the table behind Genk.

Away from home in the Champions League, Club Brugge has struggled, recording two losses, one draw, and one win—a 1-0 victory over Sturm Graz in October. They have averaged 1 goal per game while conceding 1.75 goals per match on the road.

Atalanta vs Club Brugge Prediction and Tactical Analysis

Atalanta’s goalless draw against Cagliari suggests that they were already focused on the Club Brugge match, which makes it unlikely that Gasperini’s men will repeat the same concentration lapses seen in the first leg.

Additionally, Gasperini is set to welcome back two key players, Kolasinac and Lookman, who could play a decisive role, either in protecting a two-goal lead or breaking down Brugge’s defense. With their greater experience in high-stakes European matches, Atalanta looks well-positioned for a comeback victory.

• BetMines algorithm prediction for the match Atalanta vs Club Brugge predicts the 1 at 47%
• BetMines algorithm prediction for the match Atalanta vs Club Brugge predicts the X at 23%
• BetMines algorithm prediction for the match Atalanta vs Club Brugge predicts the 2 at 30%

Atalanta vs Club Brugge Predicted Lineups

ATALANTA (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Ruggeri; De Ketelaere, Pasalic; Retegui. Coach: Gasperini

CLUB BRUGGE (4-2-3-1): Mignolet; Sabbe, Mechele, Ordonez, De Cuyper; Onyedika, Jashari; Tzolis, Vanaken, Talbi; Jutgla. Coach: Hayen