Atalanta will clash with Bologna on February 4, 2025, at the Gewiss Stadium for the eagerly awaited quarter-final match of the Coppa Italia. Scheduled to kick off at 21:00 CET, the match promises to be thrilling as both sides vie for advancement to the semi-finals.
Atalanta recently drew 1-1 against Torino, and they will be eager to secure victory to keep their cup dreams alive. The Bergamaschi hold the edge with their current standing, being third in Serie A, but they face some tactical challenges with injuries affecting their lineup. Meanwhile, Bologna arrives after defeating Como 2-0, extending their unbeaten run to seven matches across competitions and climbing to seventh place on the Italian league table.
Bologna's coach, Vincenzo Italiano, expressed confidence going forward, stating, "We will honor this competition as it should be... We have to face it with great intensity." His team has shown resilience, and even though Atalanta has historically performed well against Bologna, past records will not influence the outcome of this cup match. Both teams have met once this season already, ending in a 1-1 draw, which adds to the significance of the confrontation.
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini has faced significant injury challenges leading up to this game. Notably, defender Giorgio Scalvini will be absent for about three months after surgery, and forward Ademola Lookman will also miss several weeks due to knee issues. Gasperini remarked, "It won't be easy against Bologna... we will need to give our all to advance to the next round." Despite these setbacks, the return of striker Gianluca Scamacca, after five months sidelined due to ACL surgery, could boost Atalanta's attacking options.
On the tactical front, Atalanta are expected to continue utilizing their energetic 3-4-1-2 formation, emphasizing dynamic play and intense pressing to dominate possession. Meanwhile, Bologna will look to implement their high-pressing style with strategic verticality under Italiano, famous for his cup expertise.
Historically, Atalanta have been more successful against Bologna, winning 19 out of the last 41 encounters. They have also been impressive at home, having won 11 of their last 13 matches, but past performances will be put to the test as injuries could change the dynamics of the upcoming game.
Experts predict Atalanta can overcome Bologna, with betting odds favoring the home side for victory. With both teams' abilities to score, it is anticipated there may be over 2.5 goals, heightening the stakes for this quarter-final clash.
It remains to be seen if Bologna can disrupt Atalanta's plans and capitalize on the absence of key players. The match will not only be about skill but also testing the mental fortitude of both teams as they aim to secure spots in the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia.