Serie A: Lineup Preview - Atalanta Vs Udinese

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Post on Nov 10, 2024

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Serie A Lineup Preview: Atalanta vs Udinese - Can the Bergamo Boys Bounce Back?

Atalanta and Udinese clash at the Gewiss Stadium on Sunday, with both sides seeking a return to winning ways after recent setbacks. The Bergamo side are still reeling from their surprise defeat to Roma, while Udinese are looking to build on their draw against AC Milan.

Atalanta's Quest for Consistency:

Gian Piero Gasperini's side have been inconsistent this season, alternating between impressive wins and disappointing losses. Their attacking firepower, spearheaded by Rasmus Hojlund and Ademola Lookman, is undeniable, but defensive solidity has been a concern.

For this clash, Gasperini will likely opt for a 3-4-3 formation. The returning Teun Koopmeiners will be vital in midfield, dictating the tempo and providing attacking impetus. Lookman and Hojlund will be eager to prove their worth, while the likes of Luis Muriel and Duvan Zapata will be vying for minutes.

Udinese's Focus on Defensive Solidity:

Andrea Sottil's Udinese have built their success on a solid defensive foundation. Their disciplined approach has yielded positive results, as they have conceded just 19 goals this season, the third-lowest in the league. However, their attacking output has been inconsistent, with just 24 goals scored.

Sottil is likely to field a 3-5-2 formation, with the experienced Gerard Deulofeu leading the line alongside Beto. Their midfield trio of Lazar Samardzic, Walace, and Kingsley Ehizibue will be crucial in controlling the tempo and preventing Atalanta from gaining dominance.

Key Battles:

• Hojlund vs Bijol: The young Danish striker will be looking to exploit Udinese's center-back pairing of Bijol and Perez. Bijol's physicality and aerial prowess will be put to the test against Hojlund's pace and movement.
• Lookman vs Udogie: Udinese's left-back Destiny Udogie will face a difficult task in marking Lookman's pace and dribbling ability. Lookman's ability to cut inside and create chances will be a major threat to Udinese's defense.
• Koopmeiners vs Samardzic: The midfield battle will be crucial in deciding the outcome of the game. Koopmeiners' creativity and passing range will be countered by Samardzic's energy and ability to break up play.

Prediction:

Both teams will be eager to secure a victory, but Atalanta's home advantage and attacking firepower give them a slight edge. Expect a close and exciting encounter, with Atalanta emerging victorious by a narrow margin.

Potential Lineups:

Atalanta: Musso; Toloi, Palomino, Djimsiti; Hateboer, Koopmeiners, De Roon, Maehle; Lookman, Hojlund, Muriel.

Udinese: Silvestri; Perez, Bijol, Nuytinck; Ehizibue, Samardzic, Walace, Lovric, Udogie; Beto, Deulofeu.

Kick-off: Sunday, February 19, 2023, at 14:00 CET (Gewiss Stadium)