Club Brugge Analysis
Despite suffering a 3-1 defeat against Manchester City in the final match of the new 36-team league phase, Club Brugge managed to secure a spot in the knockout rounds of the Champions League. The Belgian team finished in 24th place, the last qualifying position, surpassing expectations by defeating Aston Villa and Sporting Lisbon along the way.
Although their loss to City ended a remarkable 20-game unbeaten streak—including 15 wins—Brugge have survived and now have the opportunity to make only their second-ever knockout stage appearance in the Champions League. Fans of the Blauw-Zwart will hope for a better performance this time, as their last campaign ended in a humiliating 7-1 aggregate loss to Benfica two years ago.
Under the leadership of head coach Nicky Hayen, Brugge became Belgian champions for the 19th time in the 2023-24 season, securing their fourth title in five years. This season, they are currently the closest competitors to Pro League leaders Genk.
In addition to their European success, Brugge has also reached the Belgian Cup final. They recently ended a rare five-match winless streak by defeating 10-man OH Leuven, with Gustaf Nilsson scoring his fifth goal in as many league matches.
Brugge has been a highly efficient attacking team, failing to score in only one of their last 30 games—that lone blank coming against Juventus in the Champions League. They have also played AC Milan this season, suffering a 3-1 defeat at San Siro. Now, a new challenge awaits them against another Italian club.
Historically, Club Brugge has struggled against Serie A teams, failing to win in their last 15 encounters with Italian sides. Their last victory over a Serie A team came 22 years ago, when they defeated AC Milan. Breaking that trend in midweek will be a major goal for Hayen’s men.
Atalanta BC Analysis
While Club Brugge barely made the top 24, Atalanta were on the verge of securing a top-eight finish in the league phase until the final matchday. In their last match against Barcelona, Gian Piero Gasperini’s side twice came from behind but couldn’t find a late winner, ultimately finishing in ninth place and being forced into the playoff round.
Despite the disappointment, Atalanta showed their quality throughout the group stage, recording two victories by five-goal margins and earning draws against both Barcelona and Arsenal. Last season’s Europa League winners may feel unlucky to have missed out on automatic qualification, but they will now look to take the longer route to the Round of 16.
Gasperini’s team has been known for its attacking prowess, scoring a club-record 126 goals in 2024. However, their defensive improvement this season has been equally impressive. Atalanta conceded just six goals in the group phase, the fourth-best defensive record in the tournament. In addition, only Arsenal allowed fewer shots on target than the Italian side.
Despite their solid performances, Atalanta’s momentum has slowed in 2025. While they were top of Serie A at the start of the year, they have won just three of their last 11 matches across all competitions. Their 15-game unbeaten run was ended recently, and they suffered a Coppa Italia quarter-final exit against Bologna.
Now virtually out of the Serie A title race, Atalanta is at least securing their grip on third place. Their star striker Mateo Retegui has been in red-hot form, scoring four goals in their recent 5-0 victory over Hellas Verona. The Argentine striker, a potential Capocannoniere contender, will be the key attacking threat in Bruges.
Team News
Club Brugge coach Nicky Hayen has the advantage of a fully fit squad, which is a major contrast to Atalanta’s situation.
Veteran goalkeeper Simon Mignolet will continue as the starting keeper, while 20-year-old Colombian defender Joel Ordonez has played every minute of Brugge’s Champions League campaign so far. He has been a standout performer in defense.
On the other side, Atalanta will be without several key players. Gianluca Scamacca and Giorgio Scalvini are out for the season, while Sead Kolasinac, first-choice goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi, and Europa League final hero Ademola Lookman are also unavailable. However, new signings Daniel Maldini and Stefan Posch are eligible and could make an impact.
A key storyline is the return of Charles De Ketelaere to his former club. The Belgian playmaker, who joined Atalanta from AC Milan, started his career at Club Brugge, where he scored 26 goals before moving to Serie A. He has been involved in nine Champions League goals this season, outperforming even Atalanta’s main striker, Mateo Retegui.
Predicted Lineups
Club Brugge possible lineup:
Mignolet; Seys, Mechele, Ordonez, De Cuyper; Jashari, Onyedika; Talbi, Vanaken, Tzolis; Jutgla.
Atalanta BC possible lineup:
Patricio; Posch, Hien, Djimsiti; Bellanova, Ederson, De Roon, Ruggeri; De Ketelaere, Pasalic; Retegui.
Betting Prediction
This is a highly competitive matchup between two teams that have both shown impressive form this season but are currently experiencing mixed results.
- Atalanta’s strengths: A more structured defense, a strong midfield, and a proven goal scorer in Retegui. They have also performed well in big matches this season.
- Club Brugge’s strengths: A team with momentum, playing at home, and a consistent goal-scoring record. Their attack, led by Jutgla and Vanaken, has been particularly effective.
- Atalanta’s weaknesses: A dip in form, several key injuries, and a shaky record on the road in recent months.
- Club Brugge’s weaknesses: A poor historical record against Serie A teams and defensive vulnerabilities that Atalanta could exploit.
Given the offensive quality on both sides, we expect a match with goals. Here are our betting recommendations:
✅ Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Yes
✅ Over 2.5 Goals
✅ Atalanta to Win or Draw (Double Chance)
If you’re looking for a high-risk, high-reward bet, consider:
🎯 Mateo Retegui to Score Anytime
🎯 Charles De Ketelaere to Provide an Assist
Atalanta has the edge on paper, but Club Brugge’s home advantage and attacking form make this an open contest. Expect an exciting, goal-filled battle!
