Lecce vs. Atalanta

Lecce vs. Atalanta livestream

Aug 19, 2024 - 09:37
Aug 19, 2024 - 10:27
 0  27
Lecce vs. Atalanta

Live stream Lecce vs. Atalanta

Click on any stream link below to watch the game.

Stream Links

Ads

Quality

Language

Stream link 1

2

HD Adaptive

English

The 2024/25 Serie A season kicks off with an intriguing clash between Lecce and Atalanta at the Stadio Via del Mare on August 19, 2024. As both teams look to start their campaigns on a positive note, this matchup promises to be a test of resilience, tactics, and form. While Atalanta boasts a rich history and recent success, Lecce will be eager to prove themselves against a top-tier opponent.

Lecce: Building on Last Season's Survival

Lecce, under the guidance of Luca Gotti, managed to secure their Serie A status last season despite a tumultuous campaign. The Giallorossi finished 14th, ensuring safety but ending the season on a winless streak of five matches. Gotti, who took over from Roberto D'Aversa after a controversial incident, has stabilized the team and is now tasked with improving their performance in the new season.

The offseason saw Lecce make some key changes to their squad. Notable departures include Gabriel Strefezza and Marin Pongracic, who moved to Como and Fiorentina, respectively. However, the arrival of Kialonda Gaspar, who made an immediate impact by scoring in the Coppa Italia victory over Mantova, has bolstered their defense. Nikola Krstovic, Lecce's top scorer last season, remains the focal point of their attack, and his contributions will be crucial against a strong Atalanta side.

Lecce's pre-season preparations were mixed, with wins against Werder Bremen and Mantova, but defeats to Galatasaray, Huddersfield Town, and Nice. Despite these setbacks, their morale-boosting Coppa Italia win should give them confidence heading into this fixture.

Atalanta: Aiming for Another Strong Season

Atalanta, fresh off a historic Europa League triumph, are looking to build on their success and make a strong start in Serie A. Gian Piero Gasperini's side finished fourth last season, just behind Juventus, and secured European football once again. However, their preparations for the new season have been far from ideal.

Injuries and transfer uncertainties have plagued Atalanta's pre-season. Gianluca Scamacca and Giorgio Scalvini are set to miss several months due to injuries, while key players like Teun Koopmeiners and El-Bilal Toure are seeking moves away from the club. Despite these challenges, Atalanta remains a formidable force, with new signings Ben Godfrey, Ibrahim Sulemana, and Mateo Retegui expected to feature prominently.

Atalanta's pre-season form has been inconsistent, with a 2-2 draw against AZ Alkmaar followed by heavy defeats to Parma and FC St. Pauli. Their most recent outing, a 2-0 loss to Real Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup, highlighted the gaps that need to be filled before the Serie A campaign begins.

Key Battles and Tactical Insights

One of the key battles in this matchup will be Lecce's defense against Atalanta's dynamic attack. With the absence of Scamacca, the pressure will be on Retegui and De Ketelaere to lead the line for Atalanta. Lecce's defensive duo of Baschirotto and Gaspar will need to be at their best to contain Atalanta's forward threats.

Midfield control will also be crucial, with Atalanta's Marten De Roon and Ederson likely to dominate possession. Lecce's Ramadani and Pierret will need to disrupt Atalanta's rhythm and provide support to their defense while also initiating counter-attacks.

For Lecce, set-pieces could be a key area to exploit, given Atalanta's recent defensive frailties. Nikola Krstovic will be looking to capitalize on any defensive lapses and add to his goal tally.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

Historically, Atalanta has had the upper hand in this fixture. The two sides last met in May 2024, with Atalanta securing a 2-0 victory at Via del Mare. In fact, Atalanta has won three of their last four visits to Lecce, showcasing their dominance in this matchup. However, Lecce did manage a shock 2-1 victory over Atalanta in February 2023, proving that they are capable of upsetting the odds.

Overall, in their last ten encounters, Atalanta has emerged victorious seven times, with Lecce winning just once and two matches ending in draws. This record clearly favors Atalanta, but as the saying goes, past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Predictions

Given Lecce's strong home form and Atalanta's pre-season struggles, this match could be closer than many expect. While Atalanta's superior squad quality makes them favorites, Lecce's resilience and home advantage could see them snatch a point.

Prediction: Lecce 1-1 Atalanta

Conclusion

As Lecce and Atalanta lock horns to open their Serie A campaigns, fans can expect a hard-fought encounter. Atalanta will be aiming to shake off their pre-season rust and assert their dominance, while Lecce will look to build on their Coppa Italia win and start the season on a positive note. With key battles across the pitch and both sides eager to impress, this matchup promises to be an entertaining affair.