The Coppa Italia resumes with a high-stakes clash as Atalanta faces Bologna, two clubs with contrasting realities in Serie A but similar ambitions within the national tournament. Both clubs come to this match after competing fiercely in international fixtures earlier this week.
Atalanta, coming off their European campaign, needed only to secure a draw against Barcelona to advance to the knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League. The team achieved this with a tense 2-2 draw at Camp Nou, which confirmed their passage to the Round of 16, where they will face Club Brugge. Regarding their Coppa Italia aspirations, Atalanta displayed their offensive prowess earlier, decisively defeating Cesena 6-1, solidifying their position as finalists from the previous season when they narrowly lost to Juventus 0-1.
On the other hand, Bologna faced disappointment as they exited the Europa League but managed to earn respect by drawing 1-1 against Sporting Lisbon. With no hopes of advancing, Thiago Motta’s squad showed character on their last European outing. They also comfortably progressed to this stage of the Coppa Italia, overcoming Monza 4-0 without any hitches.
Currently, Atalanta sits third in Serie A with 44 points, aiming for the title chase, whereas Bologna occupies the seventh spot with 34 points and aspires to secure European football for next season. Their last Serie A encounter ended with Atalanta sharing points with Torino after a 1-1 draw, where they dominated but failed to capitalize on chances. Conversely, Bologna claimed victory over Como, winning 2-0, significantly aided by having one extra player on the field for most of the match.
Given their recent lineup, Atalanta is expected to start with Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Gin, Kolasinac, Bellanova, Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Fratessi, De Ketelaere, and Retegui. Bologna will potentially field Skorupski; De Silvestri, Beukema, Lucumi, Lykogiannis; Freuler, Moro, Domínguez; Orsolini, Ndoye, and Dallinga.
Atalanta's offensive power at home has been significant, as they have consistently scored since October 2024. Bologna, arriving with solid momentum, is unbeaten over seven matches across competitions. Last year, Bologna was eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the Coppa Italia, whereas Atalanta reached the final.
Examining recent encounters, Bologna has had the upper hand, winning three out of the last five matches against Atalanta, who has only managed one victory over the same period. The last clash ended with both teams sharing points, and predictions suggest this upcoming tussle will be closely contested.
The importance of this match is clear, as both teams seek progression within the Coppa Italia. Atalanta aims to reach another final, capitalizing on their home advantage and offensive momentum, whereas Bologna seeks to maintain their good form and challenge one of the tournament's heavyweights.
Upcoming Match Information:
The Coppa Italia quarter-final match will occur on February 4, 2025, at 21:00 local time at the Gewiss Stadium. It stands as both a pivotal moment for Atalanta to confirm its status and for Bologna to pull off what would be considered a minor upset.
With much at stake, including potential spots in European competitions for the following season, fans are eager to see which team can impose their style of play and secure advancement to the semifinals.