Bayern Munich return to the Allianz Arena with one foot already in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League after a ruthless 6-1 demolition of Atalanta in the first leg.
Few would have predicted such a dominant display in Bergamo, especially with key man Harry Kane rested, but Vincent Kompany’s side delivered one of their most complete European performances in recent years. Goals flowed freely, with the likes of Michael Olise and Serge Gnabry stepping up in emphatic fashion.
For Atalanta, this trip to Munich is more about salvaging pride than pulling off an unlikely comeback. The Italian side were exposed defensively in the first leg and now face the daunting task of overturning a five-goal deficit away from home something that would rank among the greatest turnarounds in Champions League history.
What time does Bayern Munich vs Atalanta starts?
The match will kick off at 11:00 PM (EAT) on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
Bayern Munich vs Atalanta team news
Bayern head into this clash dealing with a goalkeeping crisis. Both Manuel Neuer and Sven Ulreich are unavailable, while Jonas Urbig remains a doubt. This could see teenage goalkeeper Leonard Prescott handed a surprise debut on the big stage.
There are also defensive absences, with Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Ito sidelined through injury. Meanwhile, both Michael Olise and Joshua Kimmich are suspended.
Kompany may once again rest Harry Kane, allowing Nicolas Jackson to lead the line despite his recent disciplinary issues. Luis Diaz is also expected to feature.
Atalanta, on the other hand, have fewer injury concerns. Giacomo Raspadori remains their only major absentee, while Yunus Musah is suspended.
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Predicted lineups
- Bayern Munich possible starting XI:: Prescott; Stanisic, Upamecano, Tah, Laimer; Goretzka, Pavlovic; Karl, Gnabry, Diaz; Jackson
- Atalanta possible starting XI: Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, De Roon, Pasalic, Bernasconi; De Ketelaere, Zalewski; Krstovic
Bayern Munich vs Atalanta head to head record
The first leg told its own story, with Bayern thrashing Atalanta 6-1 in Italy equalling the Italian side’s heaviest European defeat. That result has effectively decided the tie, barring a historic collapse.
Bayern come into this fixture in red-hot form, winning five of their last six matches across all competitions and maintaining a perfect home record in Europe this season. Historically, the Bavarians have progressed from 28 of their last 29 knockout ties after winning the first leg away from home.
Atalanta’s form paints a worrying picture. Without a win in their last five matches, they have struggled for consistency and confidence. Their recent 1-1 draw with Inter Milan showed some resilience, but defensive frailties remain a major concern heading into this clash.
Bayern Munich vs Atalanta prediction
Given the massive first-leg advantage, Bayern are expected to approach this game with control rather than urgency. Even with a rotated squad and defensive concerns, their attacking quality should still prove too much for Atalanta.
The Italian side may find moments of joy against Bayern’s makeshift backline, but over 90 minutes, the hosts’ firepower should prevail once again.