Atalanta BC are set to host Udinese, aiming to bounce back following their first Serie A defeat this year. The match in Bergamo comes after La Dea’s loss to Sassuolo, a result that has complicated their hopes of Champions League qualification.
Atalanta’s Hectic Schedule and Recent Form
Despite the setback against Sassuolo, Atalanta remain competitive on three fronts. In February, they progressed to the Coppa Italia semi-finals by defeating Juventus and also overcame Scudetto holders Napoli in Serie A. They also eliminated Borussia Dortmund from the Champions League.
However, Raffaele Palladino’s team began March with a 2-1 loss to Sassuolo, despite their opponents being reduced to 10 men. This defeat ended Atalanta’s undefeated domestic record in 2026. Following the loss, Atalanta travelled to Rome for the first leg of a Coppa Italia tie against Lazio. Mario Pasalic scored his third goal in four games, but also made an error that allowed Lazio to retake the lead. Yunus Musah’s late goal secured a draw, putting the Nerazzurri in a favourable position for the return leg.
Last week’s league defeat leaves Atalanta six points outside the Champions League places. They cannot afford another slip-up on Saturday.
Udinese’s Aim for Mid-Table Safety
Udinese, ahead of their visit to Bergamo, have a poor away record against Atalanta, losing six of their last eight matches there. They have only managed two points in those games, being outscored 19-5. However, they secured a 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture in November.
The Bianconeri are aiming for back-to-back league wins over La Dea for the first time in 20 years. Udinese’s most recent game saw them defeat relegation-threatened Fiorentina 3-0, with Keinan Davis returning to the side. Davis scored a penalty, with Christian Kabasele and Adam Buksa also finding the net. This victory ended a run of three consecutive defeats.
Currently inside the top 10, Udinese are aiming for mid-table safety. Kosta Runjaic is steering them clear of danger for a second straight season.
Team News and Potential Absences
Atalanta’s only confirmed absentee is Charles De Ketelaere. Ederson remains a doubt after missing the last four matches with a muscular issue. Giacomo Raspadori has recently resumed training, and Giorgio Scalvini sustained a knock on Wednesday.
- Charles De Ketelaere is confirmed absent for Atalanta.
- Ederson is doubtful with a muscular issue.
- Giacomo Raspadori has only just resumed training.
- Giorgio Scalvini sustained a knock.
Atalanta will remain in Bergamo this weekend, as their hopes of a place in Italy’s final top four are on the line.