Match Preview

Atlético Madrid and Club Brugge meet at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano for a decisive second leg in the UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off, with the tie level after a chaotic 3-3 first-leg draw in Belgium.

The opener delivered a bit of everything. Atlético went in front early from the spot and looked in control at the break, but Brugge flipped the momentum after half-time with a fast, aggressive response. Then came the late twist: an own goal that seemed to hand Atlético a win, followed by a last-gasp equaliser that kept Brugge alive.

Now the storyline is simple: win in Madrid and you move on. There are no away goals to fall back on, so both sides know a one-goal margin at full-time is enough to settle it. If it stays level after 90 minutes, extra time is on the table.

Atlético’s home crowd should push them to control territory and tempo. Expect Simeone’s side to press with more purpose than in the first leg, aiming to force Brugge into long defensive spells and limit transition chances. Brugge, on the other hand, will travel with confidence. Scoring three against Atlético is not a fluke, and their ability to punish mistakes means they do not need to dominate possession to be dangerous.

This feels like a match of “moments.” Atlético want structure and control. Brugge want sharp breaks, smart runs, and a couple of decisive actions. If the first goal arrives early, the entire tie can tilt fast.

Match Information

TV Broadcast and Livestreams

Coverage varies by country. In the UK, the match is listed for TNT Sports, with streaming via discovery+. In the US, Champions League matches are commonly available on Paramount+. Check your local listings before kick-off for the confirmed channel in your region.

Key Talking Points

1) Can Atlético tighten up after conceding three?

Atlético rarely allow games to become end-to-end in Europe, but the first leg turned into a rollercoaster. At home, they’ll want cleaner spacing between the lines and fewer “cheap” transition moments.

2) Brugge’s belief is real

Brugge showed they can carry threat even when Atlético are in control of possession. If they stay disciplined and pick the right moments to jump and counter, they can create high-quality chances again.

3) Extra time is a genuine possibility

With the tie level and both sides capable of scoring, this may come down to nerves and game management late on. One small error could decide everything.

Prediction

Final Score Prediction: Atlético Madrid 2-1 Club Brugge

Prediction: Atlético Madrid to win in 90 minutes.

Why: The home advantage at the Metropolitano should help Atlético control the key phases better than they did away. Brugge have enough quality to score, especially in transition, but Atlético’s ability to raise intensity at home and manage the final stages gives them a narrow edge.

Lean (safer angles): Atlético Madrid to qualify; Over 1.5 match goals.