A tricky history for Atlético Madrid

Atlético Madrid will meet Club Brugge in the Champions League round of 16, playing the first leg at Jan Breydel Stadium on February 17 or 18, and returning to the Metropolitano on February 24 or 25.

Recent memories aren’t great for the Spanish side. During the 2022-23 group stage, Atlético finished last, losing 2-0 in Belgium and drawing 0-0 in Madrid. Their last Champions win against Brugge came in 2018, a 3-1 victory at home followed by a 0-0 draw. Historically, the Belgians have also eliminated Atlético in the 1991-92 European Cup Winners’ Cup and the 1978 European Cup, making them a consistently tough opponent.

Key players to watch

Goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, a Belgian international and former nightmare for Atlético, has returned to the starting XI after dealing with injuries this season.

Another major threat is 21-year-old Portuguese forward Carlos Forbs, a product of Manchester City and Ajax, who already netted twice against Barcelona in this Champions campaign. Operating mainly as a right winger, Forbs can stretch defenses with pace and precision.

On the left flank, Christos Tzolis stands out as Brugge’s top scorer in the Jupiler Pro League, tied with Vermant at seven goals, also leading the team with 10 assists. His performances have caught the attention of Atlético’s scouting staff.

Midfield experience and rising talent

At the heart of Brugge’s midfield is captain Hans Vanaken, a club institution with 545 appearances and 148 goals since 2015. Alongside him, Aleksander Stankovic, son of Inter Milan legend Dejan Stankovic, is already a regular starter at just 20, contributing four goals in 21 league appearances this season.

Brugge blends experience with emerging talent, forming a dynamic and creative midfield capable of challenging even more established European sides.

Tactical setup under Ivan Leko

Ivan Leko, who replaced Nicky Hayen in December, now leads Brugge. His system focuses on speed and rapid transitions, making Brugge a tough, unpredictable opponent, even for clubs with bigger budgets and deeper European pedigree.

Atlético Madrid must approach this tie with caution. Brugge has proven itself a persistent threat in European competitions, and history shows the Spanish side cannot underestimate this experienced, fast-paced Belgian team.

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