The Champions League spotlight hits Munich tonight as Bayern take on Atalanta in a Round of 16 second leg that feels more like a victory lap. Bayern stormed to a 6-1 win in the first leg just over a week ago, and they're sitting pretty with that aggregate lead. And while Atalanta have shown grit in Serie A, their recent results suggest they're struggling to find consistency.
Atalanta's form has been patchy lately. They drew 2-2 with Udinese and Lazio, then lost 1-2 at Sassuolo. That string of results leaves them in seventh in Serie A on 46 points from 28 games. Bayern, though, are the Bundesliga leaders with 66 points from 25 matches, boasting an impressive 21 wins. But they've got their own issues to sort out before kickoff.
Suspensions will sting for Bayern, with Joshua Kimmich and Michael Olise both out until March 19. Injuries pile on too: Jamal Musiala nurses an ankle problem, Alphonso Davies deals with a hamstring strain, and Manuel Neuer's muscle fiber tear means he's sidelined. Jonas Urbig has a concussion, and Hiroki Ito's torn muscle fiber adds to the headaches. Atalanta aren't in great shape either; Charles De Ketelaere misses out with a meniscus injury until April, Giorgio Scalvini has a bruised knee, and Éderson is being rested.
Key figures could steal the show regardless. Harry Kane leads Bayern's charge with 30 Bundesliga goals and 8 in the Champions League this season. Luis Díaz has chipped in with 17 goals, though Olise's suspension is a blow after his 16-goal haul. For Atalanta, Gianluca Scamacca stands out with 11 Serie A goals, and Nikola Krstović has netted 8. It's easy to see why Bayern are the favorites here—they've dominated the head-to-head with that single meeting this season ending in a rout.
Expect Bayern to push forward and seal their spot in the quarter-finals. They've got the quality and the lead, so this one should wrap up comfortably for them. And don't be surprised if Kane adds to his tally.
Recommended Bets
Bayern Munich to win @1.40 — They're up 6-1 on aggregate and top of their league, so they should dominate at home.
Over 2.5 goals @1.80 — The first leg saw six goals, and with Bayern's attack firing, more are likely.
Harry Kane to score anytime @1.60 — He's bagged 8 UCL goals this season and faces a defense that's been leaky.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
