Liverpool vs. Atalanta: Preview Prediction & Betting Tips

In the electrifying realm of European football, every match carries its weight in history. This Thursday, a pivotal fixture is set to unfold as Liverpool and Atalanta clash in the Europa League, an encounter ripe with narrative, history, and the promise of high-quality football.

Date: 11/06/2024

Kick-off time: 20:00

Location: Anfield

Liverpool, sitting proudly at 2nd in the Premier League, are not just competing; they're thriving amidst what can only be described as one of the most exhilarating title races in recent memory. Level on points with Arsenal but trailing on goal difference, the Reds' ambitions are sky-high as they chase glory on both domestic and European fronts. Their campaign has been a testament to resilience, managing to remain in contention for the Premier League title and the Europa League, despite a season beleaguered by injuries.

The Reds' journey this season has been pretty dramatic. Their triumph in the League Cup has already added silverware to their illustrious trophy cabinet, yet their hunger remains unsated. As players return from injuries, Liverpool find themselves in an advantageous position, with a huge chance to peak at what would be the perfect moment this season.

Liverpool's European pedigree is unparalleled in England and ranks among the highest in Europe, with three triumphs in this competition (1973, 1776, and 2001), in addition to their six Champions League titles, underlining their continental might. Their previous encounters with Atalanta in the 2020 Champions League group stage showcased their capability to dominate on their day, yet also highlighted their vulnerability, winning 5-0 away before a surprising 0-2 defeat at home. This mixed history adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming fixture, suggesting a battle that could swing in either direction.

Atalanta's journey in recent years has been fascinating to follow. Currently 6th in Serie A, they've consistently punched above their weight, challenging Italy's traditional powerhouses and cementing their place as a formidable force in European football. Despite a solid domestic season, their chances of breaking into the top four are slim, with an 8-point gap separating them from Bologna in 4th, albeit with a game in hand.

Since the 2017-18 season, Atalanta has been a staple in European competitions, showcasing their growth and ambition. Their crowning achievement, a heartbreakingly narrow 2-1 loss to PSG in the 2019-20 Champions League quarter-finals, exemplified their potential to compete with Europe's elite. Under Gian Piero Gasperini's stewardship, Atalanta has transformed into a team known for its high-octane football, tactical intelligence, and an unwavering spirit, yet they remain hungry for tangible success in the form of trophies.

This fixture against Liverpool offers Atalanta not just a chance to progress in the Europa League but also an opportunity to etch their name into the annals of European football history. Despite lacking the European pedigree of their opponents, Atalanta's journey over the past seven years under Gasperini has been a narrative of defiance, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of glory. This match presents them with a golden opportunity to claim a scalp of one of Europe's giants and move a step closer to their first major trophy.

The upcoming match between Liverpool and Atalanta is more than just a fixture; it's a collision of histories, aspirations, and footballing philosophies. Liverpool's blend of experience, tactical flexibility, and individual talent positions them as formidable opponents. Yet, their European campaign this season has shown they are not invincible, lending a glimmer of hope to their adversaries.

Atalanta, on the other hand, embody the spirit of the underdog. Their journey has been built on defying expectations, and they approach this match with nothing to lose and everything to gain. Their tactical approach, characterised by aggressive pressing, fluid attacking movements, and a cohesive team ethic, has the potential to unsettle Liverpool's rhythm and create opportunities.

This match is set against the backdrop of Liverpool's illustrious European history and Atalanta's quest for a maiden trophy, adding layers of narrative depth. It's a test of Liverpool's resolve and ambition against Atalanta's dreams and defiance. As the teams prepare to face off, fans and neutrals alike can expect a thrilling encounter, filled with tactical battles, individual brilliance, and moments that will be etched in the memories of those who witness it.

Liverpool Team News:

The Reds have welcomed back a number of players through injury of late but Diogo Jota and Alisson are not quite ready to make their comebacks yet.

It remains to be seen whether or not this game comes too soon for Trent Alexander-Arnold, but the right-back is very much nearing his return.

Ibrahima Konaté is expected to replace Jarell Quansah at centre-back, while Curtis Jones will hope for a first start since returning from injury.

Atalanta Team News:

Atalanta are missing Giorgio Scalvini through injury while Mitchel Bakker is unlikely to be fit after leaving the pitch injured in the game at Cagliari at the weekend.

However, Charles De Ketelaere made his return from injury off the bench in that game and will hope to come into the starting lineup here, but will face tough competition with Teun Koopmeiners and Gianluca Scamacca both in good form.

Liverpool's form is solid, with the Reds having won three, drawn one and lost two of their last five games. The two blemishes on that record, the draw and the defeat, both came in extremely chaotic games at Old Trafford against Manchester United, games they no doubt should have won.

On Sunday afternoon, Liverpool drew 2-2 against Manchester United in bizarre circumstances. The Reds led the game 1-0 at half-time despite spurning a host of chances; Liverpool were completely in control of the game and looked extremely comfortable before Jarell Quansah's misplaced pass allowed Bruno Fernandes to score from distance and level the scores in the 50th minute, a goal that completely changed the flow of the game.

United then became rampant and put Liverpool on the back foot, with Kobbie Mainoo's exquisite goal eventually giving them a 2-1 lead after 67 minutes. Harvey Elliott then won a very questionable penalty for Liverpool which Mohamed Salah scored in the 84th minute, but ultimately Liverpool were forced to settle for a point in a game they should have won.

The most remarkable aspect of the game is that the dynamic followed almost exactly the same pattern as the FA Cup tie between the sides just two weeks prior, where United staged a late comeback to win 4-3 after being thoroughly outplayed for the majority of the game.

Other recent results have seen Liverpool beat Sheffield United (3-1), Brighton & Hove Albion (3-1) and Sparta Prague (6-1).

Atalanta's form win two, draw one and lose two of their last five games. Most recently, Atalanta faced Cagliari in Serie A and lost 2-1 away from home. Gianluca Scamacca's opener after 13 minutes was not enough to prevent Atalants from falling to defeat, with Cagliari winning the game late in the 88th minute

After losing 1-0 to Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia in midweek Atalanta are now entering this game off the back of successive losses. Prior to those defeats, though, Atalanta secured three good results in a 3-0 win away at Napoli, a 2-1 win against Sporting CP and a 2-2 draw with Juventus.

Gianluca Scamacca is in very good form, with the striker scoring three goals in his last four games for the club.

This is a harder game than perhaps people realise for the Reds. Atalanta claimed a very good result in their last 16 tie against Sporting CP with many people backing the Portuguese outfit to progress. Ultimately, though, Liverpool have both the manpower and the nouse in Europe to get the job done against most opponents in Europe. Atalanta will give a good account of themselves here, no doubt, but ultimately Liverpool should prove too much. Liverpool 3-1 Atalanta.

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This game will be aired live to all subscribed U.K. viewers in TNT Sports 1.

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