Bayern Munich vs Atalanta prediction 18.03.2026 | UEFA Champions League

Bayern Munich approach the second leg in excellent overall form. The team’s attacking statistics across domestic and European competitions remain exceptional, with the club scoring 93 goals in the Bundesliga this season, averaging approximately 3.7 goals per game. Such offensive output has been a defining characteristic of Vincent Kompany’s side throughout the campaign. Last weekend, however, Die Roten experienced a rare anomaly, with the reigning Bundesliga champions failing to produce an over 1.5 goals total for only the second time this league campaign.

The first leg against Atalanta showcased this firepower, with goals from several players including Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Jamal Musiala and Nicolas Jackson. Olise in particular delivered an outstanding performance, scoring twice and continuing an impressive season in which he has accumulated significant goal contributions.

However, Bayern may face several selection concerns heading into the second leg. Injuries have affected a number of key players, including Manuel Neuer and Jonas Urbig, while Alphonso Davies and Musiala have also dealt with recent fitness setbacks. More recently, the club has encountered a potential goalkeeping crisis after additional injuries to reserve keepers, which could force the coaching staff to rely on a very young replacement. Despite these issues, Bayern’s comfortable aggregate lead allows them some flexibility in squad management.

Atalanta enter the second leg needing an extraordinary turnaround after the heavy defeat in the first meeting. The Italian side struggled defensively against Bayern’s pace and attacking movement, conceding six goals and allowing numerous clear chances throughout the match (Bayern created 8 big scoring chances).

Their difficulties were compounded by the absence of several important players during the first leg, including Ederson, Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori. Without these key figures, Atalanta lacked creativity in midfield and attacking sharpness in the final third.

Despite the disappointing result, Atalanta remain a team capable of producing attacking football, as evident by a 4-1 win over Borussia Dortmund in the previous round.