Borussia Dortmund will play Atalanta in the second leg of their Champions League playoff, entering the match with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. This gives Dortmund a strong position as they aim to reach the round of 16 against tough competition. Atalanta, on the other hand, faces a daunting challenge, given their recent European form and the necessity to win by at least two goals to advance.

Despite a strong performance in domestic competitions, Atalanta has struggled in their European outings, suffering three consecutive losses which raises questions about their ability to contend at this level. Notably, they have shown resilience in the Italian league, finishing above Dortmund in their group but must now overcome the deficit on their home ground. The matchup in Bergamo on Wednesday will be pivotal for both teams as they not only seek victory but also playoff advancement against strong opposition such as Arsenal or Bayern Munich.

For Borussia Dortmund, this match is an opportunity to solidify their place in the knockout stages of the competition, which remains a priority for the club following their domestic successes. With players like Serhou Guirassy and Maximilian Beier in form, Dortmund will look to exploit Atalanta's vulnerabilities. For Atalanta, the stakes are higher than merely progression; it's a matter of restoring confidence and showcasing their capabilities on an international stage after a shaky run in recent weeks.