The Riyadh Air Metropolitano will be the setting for a crucial second leg after Club Brugge and Atlético Madrid ended their first match in a 3–3 draw in Belgium. This result shifts the dynamics. Atlético doesn’t need a miracle; they require control. Brugge is not in a survival mode; they need just one good moment. Diego Simeone’s teams are known for their emotional and high-stakes performances. Meanwhile, Brugge approaches this game with confidence and a clear attacking strategy. The first leg showed that they won’t back down. The challenge is facing Atlético in Madrid, where they usually maintain control in knockout matches.
Resume Check
Atlético Madrid
• Recent Form:
• W vs Espanyol (4–2)
• D vs Club Brugge (3–3)
• L vs Rayo Vallecano (0–3)
• W vs Barcelona (4–0)
• L vs Real Betis (0–1)
Atlético’s performance has been inconsistent. They can achieve top results, as shown in their victory over Barcelona, but defensive mistakes have made games unpredictable.
Club Brugge
• Recent Form:
• W vs OH Leuven (2–1)
• D vs Atlético Madrid (3–3)
• W vs Cercle Brugge (2–1)
• W vs Standard Liège (3–0)
• L vs Union SG (0–1)
Brugge enters with confidence. They have lost only once in their last five games and have scored consistently.
Last Head-to-Head
• Club Brugge 3–3 Atlético Madrid — Feb 18, 2026
• Atlético Madrid 0–0 Club Brugge — Oct 12, 2022
• Club Brugge 2–0 Atlético Madrid — Oct 4, 2022
Players to Watch
Atlético Madrid
• Julián Álvarez — 5 UCL goals
• Marcos Llorente — 3 goals, key player
• Giuliano Simeone — Emerging attacking talent
Club Brugge
• Nicolo Tresoldi — 3 UCL goals
• Hans Vanaken — 2 goals, 3 assists
• Aleksandar Stankovic — Creative influence
How Atlético Madrid Can Win
• Control the pace early in the match
• Utilize Álvarez in a central role
• Minimize Brugge’s chances on the counter
How Club Brugge Can Win
• Score first to build pressure
• Leverage Vanaken’s creativity
• Remain defensively solid
Prediction
Atlético’s home advantage and experience in knockout stages are significant. While Brugge has the potential to be dangerous, Atlético’s ability to control the game and Álvarez’s finishing skills might tip the balance.
Atlético Madrid 2, Club Brugge 1
Atlético Madrid wins 5–4 on aggregate