Lecce vs Atalanta: Will Atalanta Find Their Lost Players?
The upcoming Serie A match between Lecce and Atalanta on august 19th, 2024, presents an intriguing contest, especially given the current situations both teams are facing.
Atalanta: Struggles and Line-Up Changes
Atalanta, known as "La Dea," are coming off a challenging week after their 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup. Despite a resilient defensive effort, the loss has compounded their difficulties, as key players like Teun Koopmeiners and Ademola Lookman are now pushing for transfers. This has left Atalanta with limited options, especially with injuries to important players like Nicolò Zaniolo, Gianluca Scamacca, Rafael Toloi, Sead Kolasinac, and Giorgio Scalvini.
New signing Mateo Retegui is expected to make his debut, offering some hope upfront alongside Charles De Ketelaere. Additionally, Marco Brescianini, recently acquired from Frosinone, will also be making his debut, but the team overall looks far from its strongest lineup.
Atalanta Line-Up:
- Goalkeeper: Musso
- Defenders: Djimsiti, Hien, De Roon
- Midfielders: Zappacosta, Ederson, Pasalic, Ruggeri
- Forwards: Brescianini, De Ketelaere, Retegui
Lecce: A Promising Start
Lecce, on the other hand, started their season with a 2-1 win over Mantova in the Coppa Italia, signaling their intent to build on the progress made last season under coach Luca Gotti. Despite missing key players Mohamed Kaba and Joan Gonzalez, Lecce has managed to field a competitive team, with new signings Andy Pelmard and Lassana Coulibaly waiting on the bench.
Lecce Line-Up:
- Goalkeeper: Falcone
- Defenders: Gendrey, Gaspar, Baschirotto, Gallo
- Midfielders: Ramadani, Pierret
- Forwards: Morente, Rafia, Dorgu; Krstovic
Prediction:
Given Atalanta's current struggles with injuries and internal issues, Lecce might have an edge in this match. Lecce's home advantage and their solid start to the season could see them secure at least a point, if not all three. Atalanta’s lineup changes and lack of cohesion could make it difficult for them to dominate, though their quality should not be entirely discounted.
Score Prediction: Lecce 1-1 Atalanta
Betting Tips:
- Both Teams to Score: Given the defensive frailties and changes on both sides, a goal from each team seems likely.
- Draw: A draw might be the safest bet, considering the circumstances.
- Under 2.5 Goals: With Atalanta’s depleted squad and Lecce’s solid defense, a low-scoring match is probable.