The Daily Star Ireland
Since their defeat in the UEFA Super Cup in Warsaw, Atalanta has shown significant improvement in both performance and confidence, especially in the Champions League. They are currently sitting in fourth place in their group, with a standout 6-1 victory over Young Boys in Switzerland two weeks ago. Before that, they secured solid wins against Stuttgart (2-0) and Shakhtar Donetsk (3-0), alongside a goalless draw with Arsenal on the opening matchday.
Atalanta has gone unbeaten in five matches this season, and they have remained without a loss since September 24, following a 3-2 setback against Calcio Como. This has marked a 12-match unbeaten streak, including 10 victories. Their strong run will be put to the test in upcoming Serie A matches against AS Roma and AC Milan.
On the other hand, Real Madrid has struggled early in the season, currently sitting in 24th place with just 6 points. Their wins have come against Stuttgart (3-1) and Borussia Dortmund (5-2), but they have suffered three defeats in the Champions League: a 1-0 loss to Lille, a 3-1 defeat to AC Milan, and a 2-0 loss to Liverpool, where they were dominated by the Reds.
The team needs to ignite a spark, particularly from Kylian MbappĂ©, who has been struggling mentally and needs to overcome the pressure he’s facing. In La Liga, Real Madrid managed to recover with wins over Osasuna (4-0), Leganes (3-0), and Getafe (2-0), although their heavy 4-0 loss to Barcelona remains a painful memory. They will also face upcoming matches against Bilbao and Girona before this European encounter.
Atalanta will be without Scalvini for this crucial match due to eligibility issues, and Zappacosta’s participation is uncertain, while Scamacca is out for the season. However, Retegui, who has been in excellent form with 12 goals and 3 assists in Serie A, will lead the attack. Charles De Ketelaere, who netted 3 goals and 2 assists against Young Boys, will also be a key contributor. Real Madrid will be missing several important players, including Vinicius Jr, Carvajal, Militao, Camavinga, and Joan Martinez due to serious injuries.
David Alaba is expected to return soon, and Tchouaméni and Rodrygo have recently resumed playing. Real Madrid will need to rely on their promising young defender Raul Asencio and hope that Mbappé can find his best form again.
Prediction
Real Madrid has struggled in away matches, earning only two points from their last eight trips. Atalanta, however, has been strong at home in the Champions League, winning 15 of their last 21 matches. Based on current form, the prediction is a commanding 4-0 victory for Atalanta.
