The Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys is set to host a thrilling Champions League encounter as Barcelona welcome Atalanta on Wednesday. This match marks the final fixture of the league phase, with both teams eyeing a strong finish to their group stage campaigns.
Hansi Flick’s Barcelona side have been in scintillating form, maintaining an unbeaten record in 2025. The Catalan giants have already secured their spot in the top eight but are still in contention for the top position in the league phase. Their recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular, with a six-game winning streak in the Champions League following an initial setback against Monaco.
The Blaugrana’s resilience was on full display in their recent 5-4 victory over Benfica, where they orchestrated a remarkable comeback. This fighting spirit carried over to their domestic campaign, as evidenced by their dominant 7-1 triumph over Valencia in La Liga.
Atalanta, currently sitting in seventh place, arrive in Barcelona with their sights set on securing an automatic last-16 berth. The Italian side have impressed in their Champions League campaign, showcasing both offensive prowess and defensive solidity. With 18 goals scored and only four conceded, Atalanta has established themselves as a formidable opponent.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s team began their Champions League journey with a five-game unbeaten run and recently bounced back from a defeat against Real Madrid with a resounding 5-0 victory over Sturm Graz. Their away form in the competition has been particularly noteworthy, winning all three of their road fixtures while scoring 11 goals and conceding just one.
For Barcelona, all eyes will be on Robert Lewandowski, whose penalty-taking skills proved crucial in their comeback against Benfica. Raphinha, fresh off scoring the winner in that match, will be another threat for the Atalanta defense to contend with.
Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui enters the match in fine form, having netted five goals in his last four competitive outings. The Italian side will also look to the creative talents of Mario Pasalic and Ademola Lookman to unlock the Barcelona defense.
This match represents the first-ever competitive meeting between Barcelona and Atalanta, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already captivating fixture. Barcelona’s impressive home record in the Champions League, coupled with Atalanta’s strong away performances, sets the stage for an enthralling battle.
Team News
Barcelona continues to deal with several injuries, including long-term absentees Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Marc Bernal. Dani Olmo is unlikely to feature due to a calf problem, but Pedri could make a return to the midfield after recovering from illness
Atalanta will be without Odilon Kossounou and Gianluca Scamacca due to injuries, while Marten de Roon’s availability remains uncertain following a head clash in their previous match. Isak Hien is expected to return to the starting lineup after serving a suspension.
Expected Starting XIs
Barcelona: Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, Garcia, Balde; Gavi, Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Raphinha, Lewandowski
Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Scalvini; Ruggeri, Ederson, Pasalic, Zappacosta; Samardzic; Retegui, Lookma
Match Prediction
Given Barcelona’s recent goal-scoring exploits and Atalanta’s attacking capabilities, fans can expect a high-scoring affair. While Atalanta possesses the firepower to trouble Barcelona’s defense, the home side’s momentum and offensive prowess make them slight favorites. A 3-2 victory for Barcelona seems a likely outcome, but in a match of this caliber, anything is possible.
Prediction: Barcelona 3-2 Atalanta
