Wed Feb 25 18:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Atalanta Faces Uphill Battle Against Dortmund in Champions League Showdown

The Story:

Atalanta BC faces a daunting task as they prepare to host Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of their Champions League playoff tie on Wednesday, February 26, 2026. Trailing 2-0 from the first leg in Germany, Atalanta must overcome Dortmund’s strong European record and reverse the deficit to advance to the last 16. Despite their impressive domestic form, including a recent victory over Napoli, Atalanta’s Champions League campaign has been shaky, and they face an uphill battle to replicate Liverpool’s famous comeback against Barcelona in 2019.

Key Points:

  • Atalanta lost the first leg against Borussia Dortmund 2-0.
  • Atalanta is undefeated in domestic fixtures in 2026, with eight wins and two draws.
  • Dortmund has won all 10 UEFA ties in which they held a two-goal lead from the first leg.
  • Atalanta is missing key players Giacomo Raspadori and Charles De Ketelaere.
  • Dortmund’s Guirassy has 24 goal involvements in 23 Champions League games.
  • Dortmund has lost on five of their last eight visits to Italy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Atalanta’s strong domestic form may not translate to Champions League success.
  • Dortmund’s historical dominance in two-legged ties gives them a significant advantage.
  • Injuries to key Atalanta players hamper their chances of a comeback.
  • Dortmund’s away form, while historically mixed in Italy, is bolstered by their current squad’s experience.
  • The match presents a critical test of Atalanta’s European ambitions and Dortmund’s consistency on the continental stage.

    Read More

Related News: