Atlético Madrid will look to maximise home advantage when they take on PSV Eindhoven in the second leg of their Champions League first knockout round tie on Tuesday. The Madrilenians head into the match having been held to a goalless draw in the reverse fixture in the Netherlands, despite having been expected to win the tie fairly comfortably. PSV are certainly putting up a strong fight, and now will have the belief that they have what it takes to win.
Of course, the away goals rule means that PSV would be in a very strong position even if they only find the net once -- a fact of which Atléti coach Diego Simeone will be all too aware. Fortunately for the Argentine, his side's main strength is their incredible defensive solidity, and they're sure to make the Calderón as intimidating a ground to visit as it was in their run to the Champions League final a couple of seasons ago.
Key player: Antoine Griezmann (Atlético Madrid)
Atléti forward Antoine Griezmann is enjoying an excellent second season as an Atléti player. Having cemented the spot in Simeone's first team, he's showing no signs of complacency. The slippery striker has scored 23 goals in all competitions, and has proven a constant terror for defences across Europe. A great passer and a fine finisher, he's also a valuable contributor to Atléti's all-round play.
Recent history
Only once before have these sides ever clashed in the Champions League. It came in the group stages of the 2008 edition, and Atléti emerged victorious both home and away. However, the fixture at the Calderón proved rather tighter than the 3-0 win they recorded away in Eindhoven: they only won 2-1 in front of their own fans. Atléti went on to be knocked out by Porto in the round of 16; PSV didn't even make it through the group.
Atlético Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Stefan Savić (thigh); Tiago (leg). in doubt: None.
PSV Eindhoven injuries and suspensions
Out: Gastón Pereiro (suspended). In doubt: None.
Atléti will be without defender Savić and veteran midfielder Tiago, who have thigh and leg injuries respectively. PSV's only absentee will be young Uruguayan striker Pereiro, who has been in impressive form since arriving from Nacional in the summer. He is suspended after being sent off in the first leg.
Match date/time: Tuesday, 3:45 p.m. ET, 8:45 p.m. local
Venue: Estadio Vicente Calderón, Madrid, Spain
TV: FOX Sports 2 (U.S. - English); ESPN Deportes (U.S. - Spanish); TSN (Canada); BT Sport 2 (U.K.)
Online: FOX Sports GO, FOX Soccer 2GO (U.S.); BT Sport live streaming (U.K.)