One of the more unpredictable ties of the Champions League's first knockout round kicks off in Germany on Tuesday, with Bayer Leverkusen playing host to Atlético Madrid in the first leg. The visitors remain favourites, but all signs suggest this could be a closer encounter than you may expect.
Atlético Madrid vs. Bayer Leverkusen 2017: Start time, TV schedule, and news for Champions League
Atlético Madrid face a tricky trip to Germany in Tuesday’s Champions League first knockout round.
Bayer Leverkusen have been wildly erratic in the Bundesliga so far this season, with coach Roger Schmidt’s side having won nine and lost exactly as many of their 21 league fixtures. On their day, they have the ability to challenge Europe’s very best; however, if they’re not at the races, they’re sure to struggle against an Atléti side unbeaten in four.
How to watch, stream, and listen
TV: Fox Sports 2 (U.S. - English); ESPN Deportes (U.S. - Spanish); beIN Sports (Canada); BT Sport 3 (U.K.)
Online streaming: Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go (U.S. - English); WatchESPN (U.S. - Spanish); beIN Sports Connect (Canada); BT Sport live streaming (U.K.)
Make friends: Atlético Madrid fans should head on over to Into the Calderón for full game coverage.
For online listings in other countries, you can check out LiveSoccerTV.
Three big things to know
1. Bayer will be without the injured Jonathan Tah, while young playmaker Hakan Çalhanoğlu is set to miss the remainder of the campaign after being suspended by FIFA for a breach of contract. Lars Bender will have to pass a late fitness test if he's to play.
2. Atléti’s long-term absentees Tiago and Augusto Fernández are still sidelined, meaning Saúl Ñíguez and Gabi are likely to form their central midfield axis. First-choice goalkeeper Jan Oblak and right-back Juanfran are also on the treatment table.
3. These sides met at this stage of the competition two years ago, and Bayer ran Atléti very close. The second leg was 1-1 on aggregate after extra time, with Atléti eventually advancing into the quarterfinals by virtue of a 3-2 penalty shootout success.
See More:
