We’re at the business end of the UEFA Champions League qualifiers. All 36 teams are in action starting at 3:00 p.m. ET, and there are a lot of qualifying spots to be settled. Atlético Madrid is making a final push for the top eight, while Bodo Glimt needs a win to have a shot at advancing.
Atlético is a -370 favorite to win on DraftKings Sportsbook while Glimt is at +800. There are +550 odds that the teams will split the points. Let’s get into a prediction and pick for Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League matchup.
Atlético Madrid vs. Bodo Glimt prediction, pick
Madrid has always been the bridesmaid but never the bride in the Champions League. Manager Diego Simeone has gotten them close, but never all the way. This year may be different, as they have a true superstar talent in the prime of his career. Provided Julián Alvarez sticks with the team through the January transfer window, amidst rumors of a move to Arsenal, he can power their attack to great things.
But, first things first, they have to take care of Glimt. A draw against Galatasaray took Atlético out of the top eight, and now they’ll need a win (plus some other results) to jump back in. Otherwise, they’re ticketed for the Round of 16 playoff, jeopardizing their chances of reaching the knockout stages.
You can ask Manchester City about what happens when you underestimate Glimt. The Norwegian side kept their knockout hopes alive with a stunning 3-1 victory over the English powerhouse, the first-ever UCL win in Glimt’s history. According to FotMob, Manchester City’s squad in that game is worth over 20X more than Glimt’s on the transfer market. Talk about a historic upset. Two points back of the top 24, Glimt needs another miracle win to stay alive.
Unfortunately, this is where the magic ends for the Norwegian side. Atlético’s attack is too deep and has too much quality for them to survive. They’ll be scrambling to contain Julián Alvarez all night, and Atlético will push through to secure an important victory for their UCL hopes.
