UEFA Champions League 2019-20: Ranking the fixtures from the Round of 16 draw

#8 Atalanta vs. Valencia

Valencia unexpectedly qualified from a group containing Chelsea and Ajax

This Italian-Spanish clash guarantees that a side not considered amongst Europe’s giants will make it through to the Quarter-Finals this season, as both teams would’ve been unfancied against practically any of the other sides in the round of 16.

Valencia – who made it to the Champions League final back in 2000-01 – were the surprising winners of a group containing Chelsea and last season’s semi-finalists Ajax, but they didn’t always impress, losing at home to the Dutch side and relying on a late goal at the Mestalla to secure a point against Chelsea. Their key win over Ajax in Amsterdam was a cynical, foul-filled game that earned them few fans.

Atalanta meanwhile qualified for the knockout stages with just 7 points – the lowest of any qualified team – and actually lost 3 of their 6 group games. Their point at home against Manchester City essentially allowed them to make it through, but the Italian side don’t have many star names in their squad.

This one could go either way, but unfortunately the winners will likely provide an easy draw for one of Europe’s larger predators in the quarter-finals.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

Know More

Edited by Kingshuk Kusari