Atalanta will be without Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori for the first leg at Signal Iduna Park, reducing their attacking unpredictability. Punters may favour Borussia Dortmund to win leg one or back Dortmund -0.5/Asian handicap; consider lower-scoring props or cautious two-legged markets given Atalanta’s likely conservative approach.
Palladino previews Champions League play-off at Dortmund
Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino delivered a measured assessment ahead of the Champions League play-off first leg at Signal Iduna Park, underlining both respect for the opposition and belief in his squad’s resilience. The Bergamo side travel to Dortmund before returning home for the decisive second leg.
Signal Iduna Park atmosphere to test La Dea
Palladino highlighted the electric atmosphere at Dortmund’s 81,000-capacity stadium as a spectacle that adds intensity to big European nights. He said the setting and the competition’s prestige provide extra motivation and expects his players to respond well to the challenge.
Injury blow: De Ketelaere and Raspadori sidelined
Atalanta will be without key attackers Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori for the opening fixture. Palladino called them “important players” whose absence removes an element of unpredictability, but stressed the squad depth and collective mentality that will be relied upon to cover the losses.
Tactical outlook and Kovac’s assessment
Reflecting on the tie, Palladino praised Dortmund’s quality and coaching, while rejecting pre-match percentage talk. He prefers focusing on performance and maturity over statistical odds, aiming for a team that can react to pivotal moments and make the most of 180 minutes across both legs.
What this means for the tie and betting markets
With Atalanta missing two attacking starters, expect a more cautious approach in the first leg. Dortmund look likely to carry the attacking burden at home, which could tilt markets toward a home win or narrow handicap bets. Two-legged strategies and lower-goal markets may be appealing for punters anticipating a tense, tactical affair rather than an open shootout.
Human side: a personal connection
Palladino also noted a personal link with Niko Kovac’s family, recalling his past connection with Kovac’s brother and promising a cordial meeting ahead of the match.
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Raffaele Palladino has given his pre-match thoughts ahead of Atalanta’s Champions League play-off tie against...
Football Italia
