Marseille vs Atalanta: Team News, Predictions, and Lineups Preview
Marseille and Atalanta BC prepare for an exciting Champions League showdown on Wednesday. Both teams, competing closely in the standings, seek to secure their second victory of the campaign. Currently, Marseille trails Atalanta by one position, making this clash at Stade Velodrome critical for both sides.
Match Preview: Key Performances and Team Form
Marseille enters the match with mixed results in their Champions League campaign. They suffered a close loss to Real Madrid and managed a solid win against Ajax at home. However, their recent match against Sporting Lisbon ended in disappointment, with a 2-1 defeat after Emerson Palmieri’s red card turned the tide in favor of the Portuguese side.
- Champions League performance: L W L
- Current league standing: Second in Ligue 1
- Last five matches: W W L L D
At home, Marseille boasts an impressive record, remaining unbeaten in their last eight UEFA competition fixtures. They have lost only two of their last 20 home matches, showcasing their strength at Stade Velodrome.
Atalanta BC: Struggles and Past Success
Atalanta, under new head coach Ivan Juric, has had a challenging start to the season. After a bright beginning, they recently suffered their first Serie A loss against Udinese, finishing 1-0 without a single shot on target. Their Champions League journey has been just as rocky, with one win in three matches.
- Champions League performance: L W D
- Current league standing: 10th in Serie A
- Last five matches: D D D D L
Despite their struggles, Atalanta has a solid European record, losing only two of their last 17 group or league-phase fixtures. This record offers them some hope as they head to France.
Team News: Lineups and Key Players
Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi faces challenges with player availability. Brazilian winger Igor Paixao is likely to return after a strong performance early this season. However, they will miss Emerson due to suspension, and injuries sideline key players like Geoffrey Kondogbia and Hamed Traore.
Potential Starting Lineup for Marseille
- Goalkeeper: Rulli
- Defenders: Murillo, Pavard, Aguerd, Garcia
- Midfielders: Vermeeren, Hojbjerg
- Forwards: Greenwood, Gomes, Paixao, Aubameyang
On the other side, Atalanta welcomes back captain Marten de Roon and Daniel Maldini, which adds depth to their squad. Despite having some players on the injury list, they have a more complete roster to choose from.
Potential Starting Lineup for Atalanta BC
- Goalkeeper: Carnesecchi
- Defenders: Kossounou, Hien, Djimsiti
- Midfielders: Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Zappacosta
- Forwards: De Ketelaere, Sulemana, Lookman
Predictions and Expectations
This clash is set to be tightly contested. While Marseille’s home advantage is significant, Atalanta’s defensive resilience could pose challenges. A draw seems likely, with a predicted score of 1-1, as both teams struggle for consistency despite flashes of brilliance.
