Manchester United are set for their last shot at a trophy-winning season, as they travel to the Wanda Metropolitano to take on Atletico Madrid in the Champions League round of 16.
Both sides will be eager to show the world that they can delve deep into the competition this year, after enduring league campaigns that are well below their fans’ high expectations.
Ralf Rangnick’s United currently sit 4th in the Premier League, whilst Diego Simeone’s men are 5th in La Liga. Redemption looks to be on the cards for Atletico Madrid, with a 3-0 win over Osasuna last weekend relighting the fire in their push for a top-four spot.
United also look to be on the rise, as the Red Devils extended their unbeaten run to four games at Elland Road last Sunday, defeating bitter rivals Leeds 4-2. Today, they will be looking to extend this good form in what will be one of their toughest tests so far this season.
With a Champions League quarter-final spot up for grabs, there may well be fireworks as two heavyweights of the European scene collide.
MORE: Liverpool vs. Leeds live updates
Atletico Madrid vs. Man United live updates
2.40pm: Undoubtedly, Angel Correa will be a huge threat for Atletico Madrid against the Red Devils. Will the Argentine striker be able to add to his commendable 17 goal contributions this season in all competitions? Diego Simeone will certainly hope so.
2.30pm: Could Fred be an unlikely hero for Manchester United against Atletico Madrid? His cameo against Leeds United last weekend was very impressive, scoring and helping his side to a vital three points. He will be desperate to make the most of this unexpected chance.
2.08pm: Scott McTominay’s absence in midfield will come as a big blow to Manchester United, given his contribution to their improved form in recent weeks. Ralf Rangnick will be hoping that his selections in the middle of the pitch can mitigate for his omission.
1:53pm: The Atletico Madrid team news is also in! Diego Simeone names his starting eleven.
Our starting XI 👊 pic.twitter.com/YXZzptC6am
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 23, 2022
1:52pm: The Man United team news is in! Very strong team selection by Ralf Rangnick.
🚨 The #UCL team news is in, Reds!
Here’s how we’ll line up in Madrid… 🇪🇸#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 23, 2022
1:40pm: Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick is certainly under no illusions regarding the task his side face tonight, stating that they will “need to be prepared for an emotional and hostile atmosphere” as they make the trip to the Spanish capital to face Atletico Madrid. Quite the statement indeed from the German interim coach.
1:20pm: Welcome to Sporting News’ live coverage of Atletico Madrid vs. Manchester United in the Champions League round of 16. Confirmed team news will be here at the top of the hour.
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Atletico Madrid vs. Man United betting odds and pick
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Given the nature of first-leg knockout ties in the Champions League, both sides may choose to conserve their chances of getting through rather than going all-out for a blockbuster victory before the second leg.
When it comes to Atletico Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo, they have a spicy relationship to put it lightly. Stemming from his Real Madrid days and continuing into his time at Juventus, the Portuguese forward always loves a goal against Los Colchoneros, thus making him a hot tip to get on the scoresheet tonight.
Of course, Luis Suarez has plenty of history with United when it comes to goals and controversy. Should he be fit tonight, there is every chance he could bag himself a vital strike in what will be a tense affair.
Bruno Fernandes has enjoyed some great recent form for his side, shouldering a lot of attacking responsibility under interim manager Rangnick. Should the Red Devils get themselves off the mark tonight, he won’t be too far away from the action, and could make an appealing bet to open the scoring.
Pick: Bruno Fernandes to score first (+650)
- Moneyline: Atletico Madrid (+175 ) / (Draw + 210) / (Man United + 180)
- Spread: Atletico Madrid -0.5 (+ 175) / Man United +0.5 (-200)
- O/U 2.5 total goals: Over (+130) / Under (-160)
- Both Teams To Score: Yes -110 / No -115
George is Digismak’s reported cum editor with 13 years of experience in Journalism