In a highly anticipated Serie A clash, Atalanta is set to face Lecce on April 27, 2025, at the Gewiss Stadium, but the match is shrouded in uncertainty due to recent events affecting both teams. Atalanta, currently in a strong position in the Champions League race, is dealing with the potential absence of their star striker Mateo Retegui, who is facing a right flexor strain that has left his participation in doubt.
The 34th matchday of the season brings a heavy atmosphere, particularly for Lecce, who are still reeling from the tragic death of their physiotherapist Graziano Fiorita. Fiorita passed away unexpectedly at the age of 47 on April 24, 2025, during a training retreat in Coccaglio, Brescia. His passing has cast a pall over the team, which has struggled on the pitch, managing only 23 goals this season—the worst attacking record in Serie A.
Atalanta, under the guidance of Gian Piero Gasperini, is currently sitting in third place with 64 points, four points clear of Bologna and five ahead of Juventus and Lazio, who are tied at 59 points. The team is eager to secure their Champions League spot and will look to build on their recent momentum following two crucial victories against AC Milan and another opponent. However, the potential loss of Retegui, who is the league's top scorer, could significantly impact their chances.
Retegui's condition will be evaluated on the morning of the match, and the club has decided to announce the final list of called-up players only after assessing his fitness. This decision has left fans and analysts speculating about how Gasperini might adjust his tactics. If Retegui is unable to play, it is likely that the team will shift from a 3-4-2-1 formation to a 3-4-1-2 setup, with Mario Pasalic stepping into a more advanced role alongside other forward options.
In contrast, Lecce's situation is dire. The team has not won a match since January 31, 2025, when they secured a 3-1 victory against Parma. Since then, they have managed just three points from ten matches, with seven losses in their last eight outings. The team currently sits precariously in 17th place with 26 points, just one point above the relegation zone, where Empoli and Venezia are closely trailing them at 25 points each.
The decision to postpone the original match date from April 25 to April 27 was met with protests from Lecce's management, who felt that a longer delay was necessary to allow the team to grieve and regroup. The autopsy of Fiorita is scheduled for the beginning of the week, and the team has expressed a desire to honor his memory on the pitch.
Despite the emotional turmoil, Lecce is determined to put up a fight against Atalanta. Coach Marco Giampaolo has been confirmed to lead the team until the end of the season, and he hopes to inspire his players to channel their grief into a strong performance. The Lecce squad will travel to Bergamo on match day, and their fans are expected to show solidarity in a subdued manner, with the Forever in Curva Sud group announcing a silent tribute during the match.
As for the tactical outlook, Lecce is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation, with key players like Ante Rebic and Tete Morente leading the attack. However, their scoring woes are evident, and they will need to find a way to break through Atalanta's solid defense, which has shown resilience in recent matches.
In terms of officiating, Federico La Penna will take charge of the match. He has a favorable record with Atalanta, having overseen ten victories, one draw, and just two losses in previous matches. The game will be broadcast live exclusively on Dazn, allowing fans to witness this critical encounter.
The emotional weight of the game cannot be overstated, as both teams navigate personal and collective challenges. For Atalanta, the focus remains on securing a Champions League spot, while Lecce fights to avoid relegation amidst tragedy. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both clubs as the season approaches its climax.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, all eyes will be on Retegui's fitness and how both teams respond to the circumstances surrounding them. Will Atalanta capitalize on their strong position, or will Lecce find the strength to rise from their recent struggles? One thing is certain: this match will be more than just a game.
