United to pull off a statement win at the Wanda
Ralf Ragnick's first taste European knockout action with Man United will see them face off with an Atletico Madrid outfit who are struggling for form. They visit the Wanda Metropolitano with the chance to take an advantage with them back to Old Trafford.
Atletico's season rests on this competition
Out of the Copa Del Ray. Lost to Athletic Club in the Supercopa. Fifth in the La Liga standings. This tournament is all that's really left for Simeone's men.
Last three Champions League results:
Liverpool 2-0 Atletico Madrid (03.11.21)
Atletico Madrid 0-1 Milan (24.11.21)
Porto 1-3 Atletico Madrid (07.12.21)
Their season has been somewhat of a disappointment so far. Atleti have put up absolutely no fight to retain the La Liga table, sitting 15 points off of their city rivals at the top of the tree.
While a 3-0 win away at Osasuna was an excellent result, their overall performance was quite inferior to their opponents. Allowing their hosts 14 shots and 63% possession is a worry. Against a United side with undoubtedly more attacking firepower than Osasuna's, Atleti could well come unstuck.
United finding their feet under Ragnick?
It's been a funny old season for United. Their managerial merry-go-round has settled and their form still isn't spectacular.
Last three Champions League results:
Atalanta 2-2 Man United (02.11.21)
Villarreal 0-2 Man United (23.11.21)
Man United 1-1 Young Boys (08.12.21)
The talent this team possesses shows that they definitely have the potential to make a push for the latter stages of the Champions League. With their league season beginning to take shape, United do have a real shot at making a push in Europe.
The feisty affair at Elland Road ended in a six-goal thriller, with Ragnick's side prevailing 4-2 victors. Anthony Elanga's winner after having a coin thrown at his head by the home fans summed up the state of the game on Sunday, a match that saw nine yellow cards.
Some interesting trivia:
- Manchester United's only previous visit to Atletico Madrid was in their first leg of their 1991-92 Cup Winner's Cup meeting.
- Atletico Madrid have lost each of their last four Champions League matches against English opposition.
- Despite making it out of their group this campaign, Atletico have only won four of their last 14 Champions League games, drawing four and losing six.
The Verdict:
This is a really tough one to call. Atleti have been in some inconsistent form, but as have United. However, the likes of Ronaldo were made for these big European nights. And against his former Madrid rivals, I'm sure he'll have a say in Wednesday's game.
That's why I'm going with Manchester United to win with bet365.
