Bayer Leverkusen coach Gerardo Seoane confirms they have ‘changed some things’ against Atalanta, including a tactical shift to three at the back and replacing injured stars.
It kicks off at 17.45 GMT, you can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the LIVEBLOG.
Europa and Conference Liveblog: Bayer Leverkusen-Atalanta and Roma-Vitesse
The first leg ended 3-2 for La Dea in Bergamo, but the away goals rule has been abolished, so if Atalanta lose by a one-goal margin, the tie goes to extra time.
The Bayer Leverkusen players are warming up with Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong jerseys, as both were ruled out for the season by injuries at the weekend against FC Koln.
“It is painful, they are young lads with a great history, it hurts our hearts to see them out for the season. We also have to adapt as a team to their absence,” Swiss tactician Seoane told Sky Sport Italia in fluent Italian.
“We have changed things from the first leg, we have a more covered defence with an extra player in midfield to help arrest the vivacity of the Atalanta forwards.”
What mistakes must Bayer Leverkusen not make after the 3-2 defeat in the first leg?
“Atalanta are very mobile, we were unable to close the spaces behind our wide men with Muriel and Koopmeiners causing problems. This is why we moved to what is basically a five-man defence today to cover those spaces.
“We also must remember not to lose our heads, it’s a 90-minute game that we can win even at the last minute or in extra time. We need mentality and heart too.”
Kerem Demirbay returns after missing the first leg through suspension.
“It’s true Demirbay can fill Wirtz’s role, albeit not in the same way. He has a good foot when it comes to free kicks, that quality of individual ideas and a bit more experience than Wirtz, which can be an important element in these matches.”
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