What can Borussia Dortmund expect from Atletico Madrid?
Borussia Dortmund will face Atletico Madrid for a spot in the UEFA Champions League semifinals, but what can Edin Terzic's side expect from the Colchoneros?
Atletico Madrid are set to host Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinals on Wednesday, and a fascinating tactical battle awaits between the teams led by Diego Simeone and Edin Terzic. Atletico reached the quarterfinals after a neck-and-neck dispute against Inter Milan, showing that they are not to be taken lightly.
Diego Simeone's Atletico is a physical and well-organised defensive team, which primarily utilises transitions and their wide players' speed to hurt their opponents. Still, the Cholo is way more flexible tactically than most people would think.
For instance, the 2020/21 Atletico team that won La Liga with Luis Suárez as top scorer is a prime example of how good of a manager Simeone is and how he is capable of adapting through different circumstances and opponents.
It has not been long since Simeone adapted his style of play to a back-three defence. However, what might seem like a more reactive approach is actually a very effective way to attack without exposing the defence, especially with forwards like Antoine Griezmann and Álvaro Morata in great form.
Here is a tactical breakdown of Atletico Madrid, how they can hurt Borussia Dortmund, and what needs to happen for the Black and Yellows to qualify for the Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2013.