Atalanta BC is gearing up for a crucial Coppa Italia quarter-final clash against Juventus, with coach Raffaele Palladino expressing his team’s determination to succeed in the tournament. The match is scheduled for Thursday evening at Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo, with kick-off at 20:00 GMT (21:00 CET). Unlike traditional knockout matches, this encounter will go straight to penalties if the teams remain level after 90 minutes, skipping extra time.
Palladino emphasized the importance of the match, detailing Juventus’s recent resurgence under coach Luciano Spalletti, who has instilled a sense of belief and identity within the team. “This is a fascinating game against a strong team that plays fine football,” Palladino noted. He remarked on Juventus’s capabilities and expressed confidence in his squad’s competitiveness as they strive to advance further in this prestigious competition.
The Atalanta squad has undergone some changes in the January transfer window, most notably the departure of Ademola Lookman, who expressed a desire to leave for Atletico Madrid. Palladino acknowledged Lookman’s request, stating that the decision was mutual for the player’s happiness and the club’s strategic needs. The coach remains optimistic about his team’s depth, welcoming Giacomo Raspadori’s arrival to bolster the squad.
Reflecting on recent performances, particularly a draw against Como where they faced significant challenges, Palladino praised his team’s fighting spirit despite being reduced to ten men early in the game. Goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi’s crucial penalty save highlighted the resilience of the squad.
As Atalanta prepares for this high-stakes match against Juventus, the anticipation is palpable. The winners will face either Bologna or Lazio in the semi-finals, an opportunity Palladino and his players are eager to seize.