Borussia Dortmund and Atalanta meet in the Champions League knockout play-off first leg at Signal Iduna Park on Tuesday, with both teams aiming to take control of the tie in front of a packed crowd.
Dortmund’s confidence is high after a dominant 4-0 win over Mainz on Friday, a game in which Julian Ryerson produced four assists in an outstanding display from the right flank.
The Norwegian became only the fourth player since 2004-05 to register four assists in a single Bundesliga game.
Borussia Dortmund team news
Dortmund confirmed that central defenders Nico Schlotterbeck, who is struggling with muscular problems, and Niklas Sule, who has a thigh issue, both missed the final training session and will not feature against Atalanta.
The situation worsens with captain Emre Can also unavailable as he continues to recover from a groin injury, further limiting Kovac’s options in the heart of defence. Young centre-back Filippo Mané is likewise ruled out until March, leaving Dortmund short of natural central defenders for such a crucial European fixture.
To cope with the shortage, Dortmund have turned to their youth ranks, adding Luca Reggiani, Elias Benkara and Danylo Krevsun to their Champions League squad via the B list ahead of this tie.
Reggiani stepped in for Süle during the victory over Mainz and impressed on his league debut, putting himself in contention to start again in this high-stakes clash with Atalanta
Borussia Dortmund predicted lineup
Possible Borussia Dortmund starting XI:Â Kobel; Reggiani, Anton, Bensebaini; Ryerson, Bellingham, Nmecha, Svensson; Brandt, Beier; Guirassy
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8pm BST on Tuesday, 17th February.
How to watch Borussia Dortmund vs Atalanta?
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 3.
Read Also –Â Remembering every same-nation Champions League knockout tie
See More –Â Premier League clubs warned Mexican teenager will cost huge fee
