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The Champions League draw handed Atalanta a tough opening test against Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning European champions, and the result was as expected. The Italian side was outclassed from start to finish in a one-sided 4-0 defeat, a scoreline that could easily have been heavier. The loss underlined the challenges Atalanta face this season, particularly after parting ways with key attacking players during the summer transfer window.
Atalanta’s Early-Season Struggles and Injuries
Domestically, Atalanta’s Serie A campaign began hesitantly, with back-to-back 1-1 draws against Pisa and Parma. They managed to regain momentum with strong wins over Lecce (4-1) and Torino (3-0), but their recent trip to Turin to face Juventus again highlighted inconsistencies that coach Ivan Juric will need to address.
Injuries have compounded the team’s difficulties. Gianluca Scamacca, expected to be the main attacking force following the departure of Mateo Retegui, has been sidelined. Other absentees include Ederson, Sead Kolašinac, and former PSG left-back Mitchel Bakker, who is not registered for the competition. On the positive side, Juric has recalled Ademola Lookman to the squad after initially leaving him out, hoping the Nigerian forward can spark more creativity. However, defenders Hien and Zalewski, both injured during the clash with Torino, remain doubtful.
Club Brugge Riding Momentum
On the other side, Club Brugge entered the group stage on a high note after dismantling Monaco 4-1 at home in their opening match. Their performance reaffirmed their reputation as a dangerous side in Europe, building on their run to the last 16 in the previous season.
Belgian football more broadly is enjoying a surge, as shown by Union Saint-Gilloise’s strong display against PSV. In the domestic Pro League, however, Brugge sit third behind Saint-Trond and Union SG. Early setbacks included a 1-1 draw with Gent and a surprise 1-0 defeat to newly promoted La Louvière. But since then, Nicky Hayen’s squad has bounced back, defeating Saint-Trond 2-0 shortly after their European success against Monaco.
Fitness concerns do exist, particularly with goalkeeper Simon Mignolet still out injured since the Monaco match. Young striker Romeo Vermant (21) also remains unavailable. Even so, the squad boasts depth in attack, with Nicolo Tresoldi, Raphael Onyedika, Hans Vanaken, and summer signing Mamadou Diakhon all expected to feature after finding the net in recent weeks.
What to Expect
Atalanta’s record in European away fixtures last season was poor, with just two wins and eleven defeats. Their struggles outside Italy raise doubts about whether they can turn things around quickly against a confident Brugge side that has thrived at home.
Still, Atalanta’s tactical discipline and experience at this level cannot be dismissed. Juric’s decision to restore Lookman to the lineup could provide a needed attacking edge, especially given their injury problems. Brugge, meanwhile, will aim to capitalize on momentum and expose Atalanta’s defensive frailties.
Prediction
Given Atalanta’s shaky start and the strength of Brugge’s attacking options, this match promises goals on both ends. However, with home advantage and a desperate need to respond after the PSG humiliation, Atalanta may edge it.
Prediction: Atalanta 3 – 1 Club Brugge KV
