As the Champions League resumes after the mid-winter break, Atalanta prepare to host Sturm Graz in a crucial match at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo. The Italian side, currently sitting 13th in the league phase with 11 points, aims to secure a spot in the knockout stages, while the Austrian champions, languishing in 29th place with just 3 points, fight to keep their European dreams alive.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s men have experienced a dip in form since their last Champions League outing against Real Madrid in December. Their Serie A title aspirations have taken a hit, and they suffered a disappointing exit in the Supercoppa Italiana semi-finals against Inter Milan.
The Bergamaschi’s recent results have been less than stellar: a fortunate 0-0 draw against Udinese, a 2-2 draw with Juventus, salvaged by Mateo Retegui’s late goal, and a 3-2 defeat to title rivals Napoli, ending a 15-match unbeaten streak in Serie A.
Despite their recent struggles, Atalanta’s home advantage and superior squad quality make them favorites for this clash. However, their Champions League home record is a concern, with only one win in their last 10 fixtures at the Gewiss Stadium.
Sturm Graz face an uphill battle, as no Austrian side has ever beaten Italian opposition in the Champions League era. The visitors, under new manager Jurgen Saumel, field one of the youngest squads in the competition, with several teenagers likely to feature.
Despite their European struggles, Sturm Graz has been impressive domestically: unbeaten in 11 league and cup contests, with eight wins during this streak, and leading the Austrian Bundesliga table before the winter break.
However, their Champions League away record is poor, with only one win in 15 matches.
Team News
Gasperini has nearly a full squad to choose from, with only Gianluca Scamacca and Odilon Kossounou definitely ruled out. Sead Kolasinac returns from suspension, while Juan Cuadrado remains doubtful.
The Austrian side has lost key players Mika Biereth and Jusuf Gazibegovic during the winter transfer window. Max Johnston and Seedy Jatta are likely to miss out through injury, but goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen has returned from knee surgery.
Expected Starting XIs
Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Zappacosta; De Ketelaere, Lookman; Retegui
Sturm Graz: Scherpen; Geyrhofer, Aiwu, Wuthrich, Lavalee; Chukwuani, Yalcouye, Stankovic, Kiteishvili; Boving, Jatta
Match Prediction
While Atalanta’s recent form has been inconsistent, their quality and experience should prove too much for a youthful Sturm Graz side. The Italians’ attacking prowess, led by the likes of Retegui, Lookman, and De Ketelaere, is likely to overwhelm the visitors’ defense.
Expect Atalanta to secure a comfortable victory, potentially ending Sturm Graz’s European campaign while boosting their own chances of direct qualification to the knockout stages.
Prediction: Atalanta BC 3-1 Sturm Graz
