Atalanta vs Celtic: Champions League Preview, Predictions, and Betting Tips
The Champions League is back, and this Wednesday, October 23, 2024, Atalanta will look to extend their unbeaten run in this season’s group stage as they host Celtic at their home ground in Bergamo. With both clubs bringing their unique narratives to this clash, fans and bettors alike are in for an exciting showdown at 17:45 GMT.
Atalanta’s Performance Overview
Atalanta comes into this match riding a wave of momentum. The Lombardy-based club has kicked off their Champions League campaign with significant results, including a convincing 3-0 victory against Shakhtar Donetsk and a resilient 0-0 draw with Arsenal. These performances have positioned Atalanta well in their quest for progression, and they are now eager to add another positive result against Celtic.
However, it’s essential to note that while Atalanta sits in a comfortable sixth position in Serie A, their domestic campaign has seen some surprising slip-ups, including defeats against Torino, Inter Milan, and newcomers Como. Nevertheless, they seem to have found their form again, having won the last three competitive matches. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini will be looking to keep this winning momentum alive as they take on the Scottish champions.
Celtic’s Struggles
On the flip side, Celtic’s recent form has left much to be desired. The team recently allowed a two-goal lead to slip in a 2-2 draw against Aberdeen, which, compounded by a humiliating 7-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund in their last Champions League match, has left them low on confidence. With this match being their first encounter against the Italian side, the pressure is mounting on Brendan Rodgers’ men to turn around their recent fortunes, especially against a historically strong opponent.
Celtic’s European track record against Italian teams doesn’t inspire confidence for their fans; they have lost their last seven Champions League encounters against Italian sides, conceding a total of 15 goals while scoring just once. Against a potent Atalanta attack, the task may prove incredibly challenging.
Atalanta vs Celtic Betting Tips
Tip 1: Atalanta to Win and Both Teams to Score @ 13/8
Given Atalanta’s offensive capabilities paired with Celtic’s shaky defense, a bet on Atalanta to win while both teams find the net is appealing. With Atalanta’s attacking prowess and the Scottish side’s troubled defensive record, expect an engaging encounter that could very well end with goals on both ends of the pitch.
Tip 2: Over Nine Corners in Match @ 1/1
Expect corners to be a key feature in this match. Atalanta is likely to dominate possession, leading to numerous corner opportunities. They have shown a solid attacking form, and with Celtic having a tendency to counter-attack, a high corner tally is on the cards. The statistical history backs this up, as the two teams have won a combined total of 24 corners in this season’s Champions League.
Tip 3: Mateo Retegui to Score First @ 7/2
All eyes will be on Mateo Retegui, who has enjoyed a remarkable start to his time at Atalanta. The 25-year-old striker, who joined from the Argentinian Primera División, has netted eight goals in his first eight Serie A matches. As he looks to add to his tally in European competitions, betting on him to score the first goal could yield lucrative returns, especially considering his current form and attacking role in the team.
Conclusion
The clash between Atalanta and Celtic promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with drama and potential for betting enthusiasts. With Atalanta seeking to solidify their place at the top of Group D and Celtic desperate to regain their footing in the competition, fans can expect a battle for supremacy on the European stage. Whether you’re a supporter or a seasoned bettor, this match is one not to be missed!
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