Atalanta vs Real Madrid Prediction: 10/12/2024

Since their loss in the UEFA Super Cup in Warsaw, Atalanta has been improving in terms of both quality and confidence, particularly in the Champions League. The team is currently in fourth place in their group, with a notable 6-1 victory over Young Boys in Switzerland two weeks ago. Prior to that, they had impressive wins against Stuttgart (2-0) and Shakhtar (3-0), along with a goalless draw against Arsenal on the first matchday.

Atalanta has yet to lose in five matches this season, and across all competitions, they have gone unbeaten since September 24, following a 3-2 defeat to Calcio Como. This has been part of a 12-match unbeaten streak, which includes 10 wins. This impressive run will be tested in upcoming Serie A matches against AS Roma and AC Milan.

In contrast, Real Madrid has had a difficult start to the season, currently sitting in 24th place with just 6 points, thanks to wins over Stuttgart (3-1) and Borussia Dortmund (5-2). They have already suffered three defeats in the Champions League, losing to Lille (1-0), AC Milan (1-3), and the most recent one to Liverpool (2-0), a match dominated by the Reds.

The team needs to find a spark, especially from players like Kylian Mbappé, who has struggled mentally and needs to overcome the burden he’s carrying. In La Liga, Real Madrid did manage to recover with victories over Osasuna (4-0), Leganes (3-0), and Getafe (2-0), though their loss to Barcelona (4-0) will be remembered for a long time. They will also face matches against Bilbao and Girona before this European clash.

Atalanta will be missing Scalvini for this important match due to eligibility issues, while Zappacosta is uncertain, and Scamacca is out for the season. However, Retegui, who has been in great form with 12 goals and 3 assists in Serie A, will lead the attack. Charles De Ketelaere, with 3 goals and 2 assists against Young Boys, will also be a key player. For Real Madrid, several key players are unavailable, including Vinicius Jr, Carvajal, Militao, Camavinga, and Joan Martinez due to serious injuries.

David Alaba is expected to return soon, while Tchouaméni and Rodrygo have resumed playing in recent matches. Real Madrid will need to rely on their young defender Raul Asencio, who has shown great promise, and hope that Mbappé can rediscover his form.

Prediction

Real Madrid has struggled in away matches, with only two points from their last eight trips. Atalanta, on the other hand, has been dominant at home in the Champions League, winning 15 of their last 21 matches. The prediction is a dominant 4-0 win for Atalanta.