Two of Italy’s most in-form teams will face off on Sunday evening at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo. Fifth-placed Atalanta will host Bologna, who sit just two points ahead of them in fourth. With both clubs battling for a coveted Champions League spot, this clash could prove pivotal in determining who qualifies for Europe’s elite competition next season.
Atalanta
Just days ago, Atalanta suffered a humbling 4-0 defeat away to Serie A leaders Inter Milan. While losing to the runaway league leaders was no disgrace, the manner of the defeat stung Gian Piero Gasperini’s men. La Dea failed to register a single shot on target and looked utterly toothless in attack.
However, Gasperini will be confident his side can bounce back on home soil, where they have won seven consecutive league matches. The opportunity to leapfrog Bologna with a victory should spur Atalanta on. Striker Duvan Zapata, who missed the Inter defeat through injury, could return to lead the line. His physicality and goals could prove the difference against Bologna’s sturdy defense.
Team News
This weekend, Gian Piero is enjoying an all-fit team. His whole starting eleven has no injuries or suspensions. Therefore, the Bergamasci will be able to play an unchanged first team.
Probable Lineup
PREDICTED XI (3-4-1-2): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Holm, Pasalic, Ederson, Zappacosta; Koopmeiners; Miranchuk, De Ketelaere
Bologna
In stark contrast to Atalanta’s midweek woes, Bologna heads into this clash full of confidence. Thiago Motta’s men have won five straight Serie A matches, dispatching the likes of Lazio, Fiorentina, and Verona in recent weeks. Their counter-attacking style has proven ruthlessly effective during this purple patch.
Forward Joshua Zirkzee has been central to Bologna’s success, contributing three goals in his last five appearances. The Dutch striker recently earned his first senior international call-up on the back of his fine club form. Bologna will hope he can continue finding the net against Atalanta’s usually miserly backline.
Team News
Thiago’s team is generally fit as he’s dealing with one absentee. The team reports that Adama Saumaoro will remain unavailable because of the long-term ACL injury.
Probable Line-Up
Possible XI. Thiago will likely use 4-2-3-1.
Skorupski; Posch, Beukema, Lucumi, Kristensen; Fabbian, Freuler; Orsolini, Ferguson, Ndoye; Zirkze.
Recent History Favors Bologna
Recent meetings between these two sides have gone the way of Bologna. Motta’s men did the league double over Atalanta last season, winning 1-0 at home and 2-1 away. Bologna has now won three straight matches against La Dea while keeping a clean sheet every time.
Atalanta’s last victory over their upcoming opponents came in early 2021. However, Gasperini has lost only one of his last 12 home games against Bologna while coaching Atalanta. His tactical nous could prove the difference if he can outmaneuver his former protege Motta.
Prediction
Expect a tight contest between two evenly-matched teams in excellent form. Atalanta will be stung after their loss to Inter and should put in an improved attacking display. But Bologna’s confidence and counter-attacking pace could pose problems. This one has the makings of a high-scoring draw, with both teams getting on the scoresheet but ultimately sharing the points.
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