What can Borussia Dortmund expect from Atletico Madrid?
What Borussia Dortmund must do to beat Atletico Madrid?
Overall, whoever wins the midfield battle will likely have the upper hand in this tie. Borussia Dortmund's midfield has been a big issue all season long, and Edin Terzic will need to find the right combination to match-up to Atletico's midfield that has the right mix of experience, physicality, and creativity.
The wingers in the BVB front three will have a pivotal role in stretching the field and opening gaps in Atletico's back three. They could also take on the slow pace of Atleti's centre-backs and exploit those 1v1 duels.
Defensively, Borussia Dortmund's centre-backs will need to be attentive to Griezmann's 1-2s and watch out for Morata's movement. Nico Schlotterbeck's speed and Mats Hummels' positioning should be well suited for this task.
The BVB full-backs' defensive abilities will also be tested, especially considering both Julian Ryerson and Ian Maatsen haven't been afforded much rest. If they can emulate their impressive displays against Bayern Munich vs Atletico, Borussia Dortmund's chances of winning will certainly increase.
It will be a difficult match-up for Borussia Dortmund. Atletico Madrid may not be as intimidating as Manchester City or Real Madrid, but they will make for an equally demanding opponent. Atletico are a well-organised and imposing side, and getting at least a draw in the first leg would be huge for BVB's hopes of progressing to the semifinals.