Atalanta BC is set to host Athletic Bilbao at Stadio di Bergamo, aiming to break a seven-match winless streak against Spanish teams in European competitions. Currently, Atalanta remains unbeaten since their initial match in this year’s Champions League, while Bilbao has struggled, securing just one win in their six matches and failing to score in their last three outings.
After a disappointing draw against Pisa, where Atalanta dropped points despite taking the lead, they return to Champions League action, looking to solidify their position among the top-eight teams. The team has notably bounced back from a significant 4-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain, amassing 13 points in five subsequent matches and placing fifth in the competition, just ahead of Liverpool due to a single point difference.
Atalanta has shown a trend of scoring all eight of their goals in the league phase after halftime, indicating a strong finish which they hope will continue against a defensively struggling Athletic Bilbao. The Spanish side has faced a series of defeats, including a 5-0 loss to Barcelona and a recent 3-2 defeat to Real Mallorca, with their defensive issues becoming increasingly apparent as they have conceded three or more goals in three matches.
Currently sitting at the bottom of their group with five points, Athletic Bilbao’s prospects of progressing further in the competition seem bleak, as they have not won in their last eight matches across all competitions. They need to rectify their winless streak, especially in away games where they have struggled significantly this season.
In terms of team news, Atalanta appears to have no significant injuries from their latest match, but Berat Djimsiti and Raoul Bellanova are unavailable. Ademola Lookman may return to the squad, while Charles De Ketelaere has been in form, scoring and assisting in recent Champions League matches.
Athletic Bilbao, on the other hand, may miss Aymeric Laporte due to injury, and they are looking to their leading scorer Gorka Guruzeta to find his form again. Nico Williams is coming off a goal in their latest defeat and is eager for consecutive scoring.
Given the current forms and defensive vulnerabilities of both teams, many analysts predict Atalanta to claim a decisive victory, potentially ending Athletic Bilbao’s Champions League campaign for the season.
As the match approaches, anticipation is high for Atalanta to seize this opportunity and capitalize on Athletic’s recent struggles. The team has momentum on their side and will be looking to continue their positive run in the Champions League.