The Champions League group stage fixtures get underway this week as Atletico Madrid takes on FC Porto. The match schedules for Wednesday at the Wanda Metropolitano, with kickoff at 10 pm.
Atletico Madrid pulled off a last-minute winner to claim a 2-1 win over Espanyol in La Liga. On the other hand, FC Porto comes off a 1-1 draw to Sporting CP in the Primeira Liga.
After proving their domestic dominance last season, Atletico Madrid will be looking to begin their continental grace. In addition, their title defense looks strong after taking seven points from their opening three La Liga fixtures.
Thomas Lemar put up the man-of-the-match performance by coming up with the last-minute winner last weekend against Espanyol. However, Diego Simone knows there is room for improvement, especially with their close victories.
This season makes Atletico Madrid’s ninth consecutive stay in the Champions League group stages. However, the side failed to make it past the group stages in the last four seasons. Last season saw them dethroned at the hands of Chelsea.
On the other hand, FC Porto’s end to their Portuguese league dominance ended when Sporting Lisbon took the crown. Sergio Conceicao would aim to scrap off any wins with a weekend clash with the newly-promoted champions. The last time Porto won against their opponents dates back to 2009.
Atletico Madrid vs. FC Porto Head to Head
Both sides have six games against each other with Atletico Madrid taking two wins similar to Porto. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Espanyol 1-2 Atletico Madrid
- Atletico Madrid 2-2 Villarreal
- Atletico Madrid 1-0 FC Elche
- Celta Vigo 1-2 Atletico Marid
- Feyernoord 2-1 Atletico Madrid
Away
- Sporting CP 1-1 FC Porto
- FC Porto 3-0 Arouca
- Maritimo 1-1 FC Porto
- FC Famalicao 1-2 FC Porto
- FC Porto 2-0 Belenenses
Atletico Madrid Team News
Diego Simone welcomes back the prodigal son Antoinne Griezman back at the Wanda Metropolitano. After netting the last-minute winning goal, Thomas Lemar will be knocking on the door. Stefan Savic is unavailable after facing suspension during their clash with Chelsea.
FC Porto Team News
Goalkeeper Marchesin remains out of contention after going through knee surgery. Therefore, Diogo Costa will continue to operate between the sticks.
Prediction and Odds
We feel the opponents will be looking forward also to their weekend clash hence not full focus.
- Atletico Madrid Win
- Goals Over 1.5
- Griezmann to Score