The Serie A clash between Lecce and Atalanta BC at Stadio Via del Mare on Saturday promises to be a thrilling encounter. Atalanta, coming off a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Juventus in the Coppa Italia final, are eager to secure a top-five finish in Serie A to guarantee European football next season.
Meanwhile, Lecce, struggling to ensure their Serie A safety, will look to capitalize on any slip-ups from their visitors.
Recent Form
Atalanta
Atalanta’s recent form in Serie A has been impressive, with three wins from their last four away matches.
Their performances have been bolstered by key players like Charles De Ketelaere and Ademola Lookman, who have been crucial in their attacking play.
Despite their Coppa Italia loss, Atalanta’s league form shows promise, with victories over Roma and other strong contenders.
Lecce
Lecce, under new management with Luca Gotti, have shown resilience but still face challenges.
With just one loss in their last seven games, Lecce hoped to secure points against Udinese but fell short with a 2-0 defeat.
Their struggle to score, especially at home, remains a concern. Nikola Krstovic and Atalanta loanee Roberto Piccoli are under pressure to deliver goals and secure their team’s top-flight status.
Team News
Atalanta
Atalanta will miss Teun Koopmeiners, who is suspended, and Marten De Roon, who sustained a thigh injury.
However, Gianluca Scamacca returns to the squad, likely boosting their offensive options alongside Lookman.
Defensive adjustments will see either Giorgio Scalvini or Rafael Toloi stepping in to cover for De Roon.
Lecce
Lecce will have Roberto Piccoli back from suspension, reuniting with Krstovic up front.
However, they will miss Kastriot Dermaku, Mohamed Kaba, and Lameck Banda due to injuries.
Nicola Sansone may return from a calf injury to provide additional support.
Prediction
Given their form and squad depth, Atalanta are favoured to win this match. Despite their recent setbacks, their attacking prowess and overall consistency suggest they can overcome Lecce’s defence.
We predict a 2-1 victory for Atalanta, continuing their push for a top-five finish.
FAQ
When and where is the Lecce vs Atalanta match taking place? The match is scheduled for Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 5 PM UK time. It will be held at Stadio Via del Mare, Lecce.
What is the recent form of Lecce and Atalanta? Atalanta has shown strong form in Serie A, with three wins in their last four away matches. Lecce, on the other hand, has struggled recently, with only one loss from their last seven games but failing to secure points against Udinese in their latest match.
What are the key team news updates for Atalanta? Atalanta will be without Teun Koopmeiners due to suspension and Marten De Roon due to injury. However, Gianluca Scamacca is returning to the squad after missing the Coppa Italia final, likely strengthening their attack.
What are the key team news updates for Lecce? Lecce will have Roberto Piccoli back from suspension, reuniting with Nikola Krstovic in attack. However, they will be without Kastriot Dermaku, Mohamed Kaba, and Lameck Banda due to injuries. Nicola Sansone may return from a calf injury.
Who are the key players to watch in this match? For Atalanta, players to watch include Charles De Ketelaere, Ademola Lookman, and Gianluca Scamacca. For Lecce, key players include Nikola Krstovic and Roberto Piccoli.
What was the outcome of the previous encounter between these two teams? In December’s reverse fixture, Atalanta defeated Lecce 1-0, with Ademola Lookman scoring the only goal.
Why is this match important for both teams? Atalanta aims to secure a top-five finish in Serie A to guarantee Champions League football next season. Lecce is fighting to ensure their Serie A safety and avoid relegation.
Atalanta 
Lecce 
