Atletico Madrid are synonymous with grit and a combative approach under Diego Simeone. Their average of 2.07 cards per game this season increases to 2.23 at home, reflecting the heightened physicality and pressure they exert at the Metropolitano.

In 2 of their 3 home UCL games, they’ve accrued 3 yellow cards, showing their readiness to disrupt opponents’ rhythm in high-stakes games. Meanwhile, Leverkusen’s fluid style of play has seen 8 of their last 9 opponents draw 2 or more cards.

Wirtz averages 2.75 shots per game and 1.39 on target, he leads Leverkusen’s shot metrics. In Europe, he has hit the target in all 6 group stage matches, with 2 or more in 4 of those outings.

Atletico’s disciplined backline will present challenges, but Wirtz’s ability to manoeuvre in tight spaces and unleash accurate strikes ensures he’ll test the goalkeeper at least once.

Since his arrival, Álvarez has thrived as Atletico’s attacking spearhead, blending movement, technical skill, and finishing ability. His average of 1.93 shots per game and 0.97 shots on target highlights his efficiency.

He has hit the target in 9 of his last 11 matches, including 4 across his last 4 European appearances. Even against a disciplined Leverkusen defence, Álvarez’s sharpness ensures he’ll test the goalkeeper at least once.

Tapsoba’s physical style of defending often brings him into contact with opposition attackers, resulting in an average of 1.25 fouls per game. His European performances see this rise to 1.4 fouls per 90 minutes, reflecting the heightened intensity of continental clashes.

Against the dynamic duo of Antoine Griezmann and Julian Álvarez, Tapsoba will be stretched defensively, increasing the likelihood of a foul. His streak of committing fouls in 10 consecutive matches only strengthens this selection.

Frimpong’s attacking flair and relentless pace make him a nightmare for defenders. Operating as an advanced wing back, he averages 1 foul drawn per game and has been fouled in 3 of his last 4 starts. In Europe, he has consistently troubled top-tier defences, drawing fouls in all but 1 group stage fixture.

Atletico’s left flank, prone to fouling with 12 in their last 4 matches, will struggle to contain Frimpong’s direct runs and quick dribbles.

At just 20 years old, Wirtz has become Leverkusen’s creative heartbeat. His remarkable tally of 18 Bundesliga goal contributions (9G, 9A) and 6 in Europe (5G, 1A) highlights his all-round attacking impact.

Even against Atletico’s defensive rigidity, his ability to exploit small pockets of space makes him a constant danger. 5 goals and 4 assists in his last 6 starts makes 2.70 look like great value here.

Galán’s defensive tenacity is both a strength and a liability. Averaging 1.37 fouls per game, he has accumulated 7 yellow cards this season, the most in Atletico’s squad. Tasked with containing Leverkusen’s dynamic right flank, featuring Frimpong, Nathan Tella, and Exequiel Palacios, Galán is likely to find himself in testing situations.

With 16 fouls drawn by this trio in Leverkusen’s last 6 matches, the probability of Galán resorting to a cynical challenge looks very likely.

With Victor Boniface unavailable, the responsibility of leading Leverkusen’s attack has fallen to Patrik Schick. Known for his intelligent positioning and clinical finishing, Schick averages 2.3 shots per game, and 1.26 on target to the same measure.

His consistency is remarkable – he has registered shots on target in each of his last 9 starts, contributing 23 shots on target, and a whopping 15 goals during this run. As Leverkusen’s focal point, he is poised to test Jan Oblak at least once.