Atalanta, fresh off a disappointing 2-1 defeat to relegation-threatened Cagliari, will be looking to get back on track when they host Hellas Verona on Monday evening.
The defeat has dented Atalanta’s hopes of securing a top-six finish and a place in European competition next season through the league. However, their recent exploits in the Coppa Italia and Europa League have provided some solace.
Atalanta’s Home Form a Fortress
Atalanta will be buoyed by their return to the Gewiss Stadium, where they have a formidable record. They have won 10 of their last 11 home matches, scoring at least three goals in six of those victories. Additionally, they have kept clean sheets in seven of those wins.
Their impressive home record against teams in the lower half of the table is even more encouraging. They have won all eight of their matches against such opposition, keeping clean sheets in seven of them.
Hellas Verona Struggling to Stay Afloat
Hellas Verona, on the other hand, are in a precarious position in the relegation battle. They are currently just one point above the bottom three and have won only two of their last 11 matches.
Their away form has been particularly poor, with just one win in their last 16 away games. However, they will take heart from their recent record against Atalanta, having won two of their last three meetings with the Bergamo side.
Key Players to Watch
Gianluca Scamacca (Atalanta): The Italian striker scored a brace against Liverpool in the Europa League and has found the net in six of his last eight appearances for Atalanta.
Federico Bonazzoli (Hellas Verona): The forward has scored in two consecutive matches for Verona and two of his three Serie A goals this season have come in the first half.
Stat Attack
Atalanta have led without conceding at half-time in their last five Serie A home matches (W4, D1).
Prediction
Atalanta’s strong home record and Hellas Verona’s struggles away from home suggest that the hosts are favorites for this match. However, Verona’s recent record against Atalanta could make this a closer contest than some might expect.
I predict a 2-1 win for Atalanta.
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