Bayern Munich draws Atalanta in the Champions League

Munich—Bayern Munich will face Atalanta in the Champions League Round of 16 after Monday’s draw paired the Bundesliga giants with the surprise Italian qualifiers.

Bayern, who received a bye through the playoff round, avoided the heavyweight collisions that dominate the bracket’s other ties. Atalanta, meanwhile, booked their place in spectacular fashion, overturning Borussia Dortmund to progress 4-3 on aggregate in what observers have already labeled an improbable and “insane” comeback.

Analysts quickly labeled the matchup favorable for the Bavarians, noting that advancement would set up a quarter-final against the winner of the blockbuster Manchester City-Real Madrid tie. With several high-profile pairings already on the docket, Bayern’s path through the first knockout round appears less treacherous than those of their chief rivals.

The first-leg encounters are scheduled for February, with return legs in March, leaving both clubs several weeks to prepare for a tie that could shape the complexion of this season’s competition.