Atalanta vs Arsenal Predictions

Atalanta vs Arsenal predictions for this Champions League fixture. Arsenal return to the Champions League on Thursday, facing Atalanta in Bergamo after last season’s quarter-final run. Both teams will aim for a strong start in this group stage clash. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.

Champions League | League Stage | Sep 19, 2024 at 8pm UK at Gewiss Stadium

Atalanta vs Arsenal Predictions

Can Arsenal’s Resilience Match Atalanta’s Firepower in Bergamo?

• Arsenal’s Defensive Solidity: The Gunners have kept three clean sheets in their first four Premier League matches, highlighting their defensive strength, even in the absence of key players like Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka. Their ability to limit opposition chances will be critical against Atalanta’s dynamic attack.
• Atalanta’s Home Form: Atalanta have won six of their last seven home matches across all competitions. This remarkable home form, combined with the atmosphere at their newly renovated stadium, makes them a difficult proposition for any team visiting Bergamo.
• Corners Likely to Be Few: Both Arsenal and Atalanta average 4.5 corners per game, suggesting that the match is unlikely to see a high number of corners, especially given the likely cautious approach from both teams. Betting on fewer than 9.5 corners could be a smart move.

Best Bet

Arsenal travel to Bergamo to face a resurgent Atalanta in a Champions League clash that promises a fascinating tactical battle. Both sides have started their domestic campaigns with mixed fortunes and enter this encounter with varying levels of confidence. Atalanta, buoyed by their Europa League triumph last season, will look to leverage their formidable home form, while Arsenal, under the astute guidance of Mikel Arteta, aim to build on their solid performances in the Premier League.

With key players missing on both sides, this fixture could come down to tactical discipline and individual moments of brilliance. The stakes are high as both teams eye progression in Europe’s premier competition, making this encounter an intriguing proposition for football fans and bettors alike.

Backing a draw as the best bet for this match emerges from analysing the strengths and weaknesses of both sides. Arsenal have been strong defensively this season, having conceded just one goal in their opening four Premier League fixtures. With the return of Declan Rice to shield the backline, they are expected to put in another resilient defensive performance. However, Arsenal’s injury list, which includes key players such as Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard, limits their offensive firepower. Despite Gabriel Jesus returning, their creativity and goal-scoring opportunities might be stifled by Atalanta’s well-organised defence.

On the other hand, Atalanta are formidable at home, having won six of their last seven matches in Bergamo. Their defensive structure, particularly with the return of Sead Kolasinac and Berat Djimsiti, offers them a solid base, while in attack, players like Ademola Lookman and Mateo Retegui pose a constant threat. Nevertheless, the Italian side’s recent form in Europe, especially against English opposition, has been patchy, suggesting they may struggle to break down an Arsenal side renowned for their defensive discipline.

Atalanta’s attacking style, coupled with Arsenal’s injuries, points towards a tight, cautious affair. The Gunners’ record of clean sheets and their ability to frustrate teams suggests that they could leave Italy with a point. A draw would be a logical outcome, with both teams cancelling each other out in what is likely to be a closely fought battle.

BettingTips4You.com expert Gram Dodd supports this call, stating: “With both teams capable of frustrating each other and Arsenal’s defensive solidity, especially away from home, a draw seems like the most reasonable outcome.”

Goalscorer Prediction

Ademola Lookman stands out as the most likely goalscorer for Atalanta in this fixture. Lookman, who enjoyed a fantastic Europa League campaign last season, has carried his form into Serie A, including a crucial goal against Fiorentina. His pace, skill, and ability to exploit spaces in behind defences make him a constant threat, particularly against an Arsenal side that, while defensively sound, might struggle with the quick transitions that Lookman excels in.

Lookman’s confidence is high, and with Mateo Retegui drawing much of the defensive attention, Lookman should find himself in the right positions to capitalise on any chances Atalanta create. He has proven his ability to score in big games, and this encounter presents another opportunity for him to shine on the European stage.

Correct Score Prediction: 1-1 Draw

In keeping with the expectation of a low-scoring, tight match, a 1-1 draw appears to be the most plausible correct score prediction. Arsenal, though defensively robust, have found goals harder to come by with their current injury issues, and Atalanta, while effective going forward, have been inconsistent in converting their chances, especially against stronger opposition.

Arsenal’s attack, led by Gabriel Jesus and supported by Leandro Trossard, will likely create chances, but Atalanta’s defensive unit should hold firm for the most part. Meanwhile, Atalanta’s reliance on Lookman and Retegui for goals suggests they can breach the Arsenal defence at least once, especially on home soil where they have been prolific.

This scoreline aligns well with the best bet, as both teams are likely to settle for a point in a match that could see periods of open play but ultimately result in both sides sharing the spoils.

Additional Prediction

A key statistic to focus on is the likelihood of the match producing a low number of corners. Arsenal average just 4.5 corners per game, and with their injury concerns, their usual attacking fluidity may be disrupted, leading to fewer opportunities for corners. Atalanta, similarly, average 4.5 corners per match, which suggests that the match could see both teams prioritising possession over frantic wing play or crossing, thus reducing the number of corners taken.

Given that both teams are expected to play cautiously, with Arsenal likely to sit back and absorb pressure, the total number of corners is unlikely to reach double figures. Betting on under 9.5 corners is a sensible proposition for this encounter, particularly in a match where both teams will be wary of committing too many men forward.

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