Atalanta will host Venezia at Gewiss Stadium on March 1, 2025, as they look to keep their title hopes alive with another strong performance. Currently sitting third on the Serie A table, Atalanta is just three points behind leaders Inter Milan. The home side is coming off a resounding 5-0 victory over Empoli, demonstrating their attacking prowess and solidifying their position as one of the league's best teams.
Manager Gian Piero Gasperini is expected to field his three star attackers—Mateo Retegui, Charles De Ketelaere, and Ademola Lookman—who have been pivotal for the team's success this season. Lookman, particularly, has been in exceptional form, scoring 12 goals so far this season. This match presents Atalanta with the perfect chance to gain ground on Inter and solidify their place among the title contenders.
Meanwhile, Venezia is struggling at the opposite end of the table. Currently second from the bottom, they remain winless for nine league games, with their latest result being a goalless draw against Lazio. Despite showing moments of promise, Venezia has struggled to score, failing to find the back of the net for three consecutive matches, which has left their relegation hopes hanging by a thread.
Di Francesco's side will need to step up significantly if they are to avoid slipping closer to the relegation zone with their away form being particularly poor. Venezia has yet to win on the road this season and has lost nine out of thirteen matches, making it imperative for them to find some stability and resilience against one of Serie A's highest-scoring teams.
The head-to-head record heavily favors Atalanta, who have won the last four encounters with Venezia, including their previous meeting this season—a 2-0 victory. Notably, Atalanta has kept clean sheets in three of those matches, underscoring their defensive strength against Venezia’s struggling attack.
Atalanta enter the match with significant confidence, bolstered by their recent performances and attacking depth. Retegui has been instrumental for the team, having found the net consistently and currently positioned as one of the league’s top scorers. Lookman, who recently resolved internal tensions by scoring two goals against Empoli, will likely lead the charge again as Atalanta aims to continue their pursuit for the Scudetto.
For Venezia, the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Filip Stankovic due to injury means Ionut Radu will again take up the gloves. Their defensive lineup will be tested against La Dea's potent attack, and improving their away form is undoubtedly necessary. Recent additions to the squad—Daniel Fila and Mirko Maric—will hope to make impacts upfront, but they face immense pressure against Atalanta's solid defense.
Gasperini's strategy for Atalanta will focus on maintaining possession and high pressing to unbalance Venezia’s backline. The coach's tactical acumen will be tested as he looks to get the best out of his side with the hope of securing the full three points. With the scoreline favoring them over past matches, Atalanta has the momentum to continue their dominance.
With the stakes so high for both sides, Atalanta is expected to come out on top, possibly with a score of 2-0 or 3-0, as they aim to continue their pursuit of the Scudetto. Betting odds reinforce Atalanta's position as favorites, currently priced at -160 to win, showcasing their strong form and aspirations.
Di Francesco stated, "On Sunday, I was disappointed because we played a great match. I was convinced we would score. We've changed significantly and are currently training with great desire. Success must come, as the boys deserve more.” This highlights the urgency Venezia feels as they prepare to face their formidable opponents.
Atalanta will look to capitalize on their attacking strength, with Gasperini aiming for his players to perform exceptionally. Lookman could be the decisive player, hoping to add to his tally against one of the league's weaker defensive teams. It’s set to be another thrilling encounter at Gewiss Stadium, with the title race heating up and relegation threats looming larger for the visitors.
Expectations are high as Atalanta strives for victory, consolidates its attack, and aims for continued success, placing immense pressure on Venezia, who must adapt and respond to avoid slipping closer to Serie B.