Bayern vs Atalanta: Prediction, H2H and probable lineups – March 18, 2026
On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the Allianz Arena in Munich will host the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16. Bayern welcomes Atalanta after a crushing victory in the first match.
Match preview
The first leg in Bergamo turned into a real nightmare for the hosts, ending 6-1 in favor of the Munich side. Psychologically, this game is about Atalanta salvaging pride, while for Bayern it's mainly about avoiding unnecessary injuries ahead of the quarterfinals. Vincent Kompany's squad is at the peak of their form, but the first-leg win came at the cost of several key players.
Bayern lost three players in that opening game: goalkeeper Urbig suffered a concussion, Musiala is dealing with an ankle issue, and Davies is out again with a hamstring injury. With Neuer and Itō still sidelined, the coaching staff will have to dig deep into the squad. Even so, Bayern’s second string at home looks formidable—especially considering the form of Olise and Jackson, who combined for three goals last week.
Atalanta under Raffaele Palladino try to play bravely, but in Munich they'll be forced to throw numbers forward, desperately chasing a huge deficit. They’ll be without injured midfielder Ederson, further weakening their defensive transitions. The visitors' main hopes will be set pieces and the individual brilliance of Lookman and Retegui.
Tactically, expect a more measured tempo. Bayern will dominate possession without rushing, while Atalanta will try to press high and at least grab an early consolation goal.
Probable lineups
Bayern: Ulreich; Stanisic, Upamecano, Tah, Laimer; Kimmich, Pavlovic; Olise, Musiala, Diaz; Kane
Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Kossounou, Hien, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, De Roon, Pasalic, Bernasconi; Samardzic, Zalewski; Scamacca
Match facts and head-to-head
- In their only meeting, Bayern thrashed Atalanta 6-1
- Bayern have won eight of their last ten matches, staying unbeaten
- Atalanta are winless in five games: three draws and two defeats
Prediction
I expect a high-scoring match with plenty of chances—Atalanta have nothing to lose and will want to showcase their best football. My prediction: first half total over 1.5 goals at 1.82
