Atalanta's 2-1 win over Chelsea in Bergamo, powered by Scamacca and De Ketelaere, boosts confidence and momentum. For punters this suggests backing Atalanta in short-term markets (match-winner or double chance vs. Cagliari) and considering their goalscorer/BTTS lines; their form makes them a tempting value pick for top-eight qualification markets in the Champions League.
Atalanta Stun Chelsea in Bergamo
Atalanta delivered a commanding 2-1 Champions League win over Chelsea, a result that lifts them above Inter in the group with 13 points from six matches. The victory returns La Dea to the spotlight after a recent domestic setback and strengthens their case for a top-eight finish.
Palladino: "A Magical Evening"
Raffaele Palladino said it was a "magical evening" and praised his players for responding perfectly after a 3-1 Serie A defeat to Verona. He admitted preparation time was limited but felt the team executed his plan with intensity and belief.
Manager's Message and Squad Unity
Palladino demanded consistency and the Atalanta spirit following the Verona slip-up. He stressed the need to bring the same attitude into Serie A and thanked squad players who did not feature for their role in preparation, promising opportunities for the whole group.
Tactical Shape and Key Performers
Atalanta chose to press and attack rather than sit deep, a decision that disrupted Chelsea's ball circulation. Defenders Kossounou, Kolasinac and Djimsiti held up well in one-on-one duels, while substitute Ahanor contributed positively off the bench.
Goals and Game Changers
Gianluca Scamacca opened the scoring with a header from a De Ketelaere assist, and De Ketelaere added a second goal aided by a deflection. Chelsea had initially gone ahead via Joao Pedro’s goal, which was briefly flagged for offside until VAR intervention. Atalanta’s response underlined their attacking identity.
Champions League Impact and Next Steps
The result places Atalanta among the top Italians in the competition and keeps them well-positioned for qualification. Palladino kept focus on domestic ambitions, noting the club must climb the Serie A table and maintain this level of performance.
Looking Ahead
Palladino hinted at a reward of rest for the players if they can follow up with a win against Cagliari, emphasizing recovery and continuity over trophies. The manager reiterated the squad's capabilities and the necessity to replicate this intensity in coming fixtures.
Raffaele Palladino asked for the perfect performance from Atalanta and feels he got it in...
Football Italia