BERGAMO, Italy – Atalanta returns to the Champions League stage today, Tuesday, March 10th, hosting Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie. The match, set to kick off at 9:00 PM CET (3:00 PM EST), will be played at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo, Italy. Atalanta advanced to this stage after a remarkable comeback against Borussia Dortmund in the playoff round, while Bayern Munich directly qualified for the knockout stages after finishing second in their group.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s Atalanta side is coming off a 2-2 draw against Udinese in Serie A, a result that demonstrated their attacking prowess but also highlighted vulnerabilities at the back. Bayern, under Thomas Tuchel, currently dominates the Bundesliga, holding an 11-point lead over the second-place team. The German giants will be looking to translate their domestic form onto the European stage.
Match Details: Atalanta vs. Bayern Munich
The highly anticipated clash between Atalanta and Bayern Munich is scheduled for Tuesday, March 10th, at 9:00 PM CET (3:00 PM EST). Here are the predicted starting lineups for both teams, based on recent form and availability:
Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, De Roon, Pasalic, Bernasconi; Samardzic, Zalewski; Scamacca. Manager: Gian Piero Gasperini
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1): Urbig; Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Guerreiro; Pavlovic, Kimmich; Olise, Musiala, Diaz; Kane. Manager: Thomas Tuchel
How to Watch Atalanta vs. Bayern Munich
Fans can catch all the action live on Sky Sport channels. The match will also be available for streaming on the SkyGo app and NOW platform. For viewers in the United States, specific broadcast details will vary, but Champions League matches are typically available through Paramount+.
A key storyline heading into the match is the fitness of Bayern’s star striker, Harry Kane. Reports indicate Kane is included in the squad but is doubtful to start due to injury. His presence, even off the bench, would be a significant boost for Bayern.
Atalanta’s path to the Round of 16 was hard-fought. They overcame a 2-0 first-leg deficit against Borussia Dortmund, winning the return leg 4-1 in Bergamo. This resilience will be crucial against a Bayern side known for its clinical finishing and tactical discipline. The Gewiss Stadium is expected to be packed, creating a fervent atmosphere for the home side.
Bayern Munich, meanwhile, enjoyed a smoother route, securing second place in their group. Their dominant form in the Bundesliga suggests they are a formidable opponent, but the Champions League presents a different challenge. Kompany’s side will need to be at their best to contain Atalanta’s dynamic attack.
Key Matchups to Watch
Several individual battles will likely shape the outcome of this match. The duel between Atalanta’s Gianluca Scamacca and Bayern’s defense will be particularly intriguing. Scamacca has been in good form for Atalanta, and his ability to find space in the box will be tested by Bayern’s experienced center-backs. Similarly, the midfield battle between Atalanta’s De Roon and Bayern’s Kimmich will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game.
Another key area will be the flanks. Atalanta’s wing-backs, Zappacosta and Bernasconi, will need to provide both defensive solidity and attacking impetus. Bayern’s Guerreiro and Laimer will be tasked with containing their threat and exploiting any space left behind.
The first leg promises to be a captivating encounter between two teams with contrasting styles. Atalanta’s attacking flair and home advantage will be pitted against Bayern’s tactical prowess and European pedigree. The result will set the stage for the return leg in Munich, where the stakes will be even higher.
What’s Next: The second leg of this Round of 16 tie will be played at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Wednesday, March 18th. The winner of this tie will advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
