The "Arena Națională" stadium in the Romanian capital Bucharest will host the match instead of the "Wanda Metropolitano," Atlético Madrid's home ground, following a decision by UEFA due to strict COVID-19 measures in Spain regarding arrivals from abroad. This fiery confrontation features Spanish team Atlético Madrid and English team Chelsea, as part of the first leg of the Round of 16 in the current 2020-2021 UEFA Champions League season.
Atlético Madrid qualified for the Round of 16 after finishing second in Group A with 9 points, behind Bayern Munich, which topped the group with 16 points, while Chelsea finished first in Group E with 14 points.
Atlético Madrid seeks to reconcile with its fans after a decline in results recently, with their latest defeat against Levante, losing 2-0 at their home ground, the "Wanda Metropolitano," during the 24th round of La Liga. However, they still maintain the top position with 55 points and a game in hand.
Previously, Atlético Madrid faced Chelsea 7 times, securing 2 victories and the same number for the Blues, while 3 matches ended in a draw. The Atlético Madrid lineup will be led by Uruguayan star Luis Suárez, the top scorer in La Liga, alongside young Portuguese star João Félix. However, Atlético will miss both Uruguayan defender José Giménez and Belgian player Carrasco due to injuries. The decisive return match between Chelsea and Atlético Madrid will take place at "Stamford Bridge," the home of the Blues in London, on March 17.
It is worth mentioning that UEFA previously appointed German referee Felix Brych to officiate the match between Atlético Madrid and Chelsea. The match is scheduled for tonight at 10 PM Mecca time and will be broadcast on beIN Sports HD1.
