Borussia Dortmund’s push for Champions League glory has been dealt a blow with the news that Dutch forward Donyell Malen will miss their quarterfinal first-leg clash against Atletico Madrid due to injury. The 23-year-old sustained a thigh injury while on international duty with the Netherlands last month and has failed to recover in time for the crucial European tie.
Malen’s absence will be a significant setback for Dortmund, who have relied heavily on his goalscoring prowess this season.
In the battle for supremacy on the hallowed turf, where dreams are forged and legacies are etched into the annals of history, a midfield triumvirate can often hold the key to a team’s success. For Atlético Madrid, the trident of Antoine Griezmann, Axel Witsel, and Koke has emerged as a formidable force, weaving the intricate tapestry that underpins the club’s relentless pursuit of glory.
At the vanguard of this midfield symphony stands Antoine Griezmann, a player whose exploits have etched his name among the pantheon of La Liga greats.
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez is staring at another touchline ban after being sent off during his side’s impressive 3-0 win over Atletico Madrid on Sunday. The former midfield maestro talked himself into trouble yet again, earning a red card for dissent after haranguing the match official.
According to reports from Spanish publications Mundo Deportivo and Diario Sport, Xavi is likely facing a two-match ban that would rule him out of Barcelona’s upcoming La Liga fixtures against Las Palmas and Cadiz.
The 2024 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg between Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan is shaping up to be an epic showdown. After a hard-fought 1-0 win for Inter in the first leg, both teams will be leaving everything on the pitch at the Civitas Metropolitan Stadium on Wednesday.
Soccer insider Jon Eimer has been red-hot with his UEFA Champions League picks lately. Since the World Cup ended, he’s an impressive 86-59-5 on English Premier League predictions for a massive $3,463 profit to $100 bettors who followed his plays.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as Inter Milan prepare to host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie. However, the Nerazzurri will have to navigate this make-or-break encounter without two pivotal players who starred in the first leg victory.
Speaking ahead of the crunch clash, Inter boss Simone Inzaghi lamented the injury absences of versatile wingback Carlos Augusto and striker Marko Arnautovic, labeling them “fundamental” players in the first leg triumph.
