Atalanta’s impressive streak of nine consecutive wins across all competitions came to an end last week with a 2-3 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League. The loss was especially tough as Retegui, left unmarked in the final minute of stoppage time, missed a crucial chance to equalize from a cross by Lookman.
This past weekend, Atalanta visited Cagliari, determined to maintain their position at the top of Serie A. Their upcoming match pits them against Cesena, a second-division team currently near the top of their league and likely to secure a spot in the promotion playoffs.
Cesena had been struggling in their previous three matches, suffering defeats to Frosinone (3-2) and Bari (1-0), but they managed a 1-0 victory over Cosenza last weekend. In the Coppa Italia, they have already overcome Pisa, Hellas Verona, and Padova.
Atalanta is expected to be without key players due to injuries, including Juan Cuadrado and Scalvini. Scamacca, a reliable goal scorer, might also be rested for this match. Retegui, who has filled in for Scamacca recently, may start, with potential lineup changes including Kossounou or Zappacosta.
Lookman, a finalist for the African Ballon d’Or, has been in outstanding form, contributing 11 goals and 5 assists in Serie A and the Champions League. Cesena, on the other hand, will depend on their key players, such as Albanian international Shpendi, who has scored 10 goals in Serie B, and Sierra Leone’s Augustus Kargbo, who has 3 goals and 2 assists.
Prediction
Cesena, struggling recently, will face a formidable challenge against Atalanta, a team with a strong home record. A dominant performance from Atalanta is expected, making it a difficult debut for Cesena in this matchup.
Prediction: Atalanta 4-1 Cesena.
