Preview: Atalanta BC vs Lecce – prediction, team news, lineups

In this weekend’s Serie A clash, Atalanta BC is set to host Lecce at the Gewiss Stadium, aiming for their first victory of the season after a rocky start. This match will not only be crucial for Atalanta, who are still looking to adjust under new coach Ivan Juric, but it also provides Lecce with an opportunity to change their fortunes after a tough couple of matches.

Current Form

Atalanta enters the match with a disappointing record of two draws in their opening fixtures. Their last outing before the international break saw them held to a 1-1 draw against Parma, where they squandered a lead established by Mario Pasalic. The team’s struggles were evident, as they consistently failed to convert opportunities into victories. Two draws against teams expected to fight relegation heighten the pressure on Juric, who is under scrutiny after taking the reins from the revered Gian Piero Gasperini.

On the other hand, Lecce’s recent form is equally unimpressive. They managed a solitary point from their first two league games, failing to score in both the match against Genoa and a 2-0 defeat to AC Milan. Though they began the season with a triumph in the Coppa Italia, the challenge of maintaining their status in Serie A looms.

Team News

Atalanta is grappling with some injury concerns as they await the return of key players. New signing Ademola Lookman is yet to make his Serie A debut, while Gianluca Scamacca’s knee issue leaves a gap in the attacking lineup. In Scamacca’s absence, former Lecce player Nikola Krstovic is expected to take the lead in attack, potentially supported by Yunus Musah in midfield.

The visiting Lecce side also faces significant injury challenges. Both Mohamed Kaba and Balthazar Pierret are doubtful, as they’ve been sidelined with muscular issues. Meanwhile, Filip Marchwinski and Gaby Jean are nursing ACL injuries, further complicating Lecce’s team selection. Serbian striker Nikola Stulic, brought in as a replacement, may take the center-forward role alongside Milan loanee Francesco Camarda.

Predicted Lineups

Atalanta BC:

• Goalkeeper: Carnesecchi
• Defenders: Scalvini, Hien, Djimsiti
• Midfielders: Bellanova, De Roon, Pasalic, Zalewski
• Forwards: De Ketelaere, Maldini, Krstovic

Lecce:

• Goalkeeper: Falcone
• Defenders: Veiga, Gabriel, Gaspar, Gallo
• Midfielders: Coulibaly, Ramadani, Berisha
• Forwards: Pierotti, Stulic, Morente

Match Analysis and Predictions

Atalanta’s struggles thus far can be tied to a combination of defensive lapses and misfiring forwards. Despite their solid roster and recent form showcasing their attacking talent, they have been unable to finish matches decisively. However, playing at home against Lecce—who have historically underperformed away—presents a promising opportunity for Atalanta to secure their first league win.

Lecce’s poor goal-scoring record raises questions about their efficiency in front of goal, and facing Atalanta could expose vulnerabilities in their defensive setup. If Atalanta can capitalize on Lecce’s weakness, they may just secure a comfortable victory.

My prediction for the match leans towards Atalanta winning 2-0. The home advantage, combined with Lecce’s ongoing struggles both offensively and defensively, clears the path for a potential breakthrough for Juric’s side.

Conclusion

As Serie A progresses, the spotlight remains on Atalanta to define their season under Juric, while Lecce seeks to establish their survival strategy. The clash at the Gewiss Stadium is more than just a match—it’s a pivotal moment for both teams as they navigate the early challenges of the season. A victory for Atalanta could set the tone for their campaign, while Lecce will need to find resilience to emerge competitively. The match promises an intriguing contest, as both sides look to find their rhythm in this early stage of the Serie A season.

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