FC Barcelona vs Atalanta Stay Weblog

In the Champions League today, Barcelona is all set to host Atalanta for an enticing clash in the round of 8 at their temporary home ground, the Olympic Stadium at 1:30 AM IST on 30th January. With 4 wins and a draw, the team is performing well in the Champions League under Hansi Flick.

On the other hand, Atalanta, led by Gian Piero Gasperini, will challenge the Spanish giants. Though their form reads WWLDD. Currently seventh in the Champions League group stage, Atalanta is dealing with the absence of Ademola Lookman due to a knee injury.

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Barcelona Team Analysis

Barcelona Recent Performance

Barcelona is flying high coming into this encounter. Victorious in the last five games with a stunning 20 goals total, they average 4 goals per match. However, they tend to concede too, with 9 goals slipping past their defence recently. Wins like the 5-2 against Real Madrid showcase their attacking strengths but also highlight defensive gaps.

This table showcases Barcelona’s capacity to score at will but also hints at defensive weaknesses. Their morale is high after taking down Real Madrid in a 5-2 romp, giving them further confidence for this challenge.

Barcelona Key Players

Robert Lewandowski is crucial for Barcelona. He’s a headache for defences with his relentless scoring. Alongside him, Raphinha is having a fantastic season with 23 goals. His creativity on the wings will test Atalanta’s structured defence.

In the heart of the field, Pedri and Gavi will drive the game forward. They’re vital for transitions and supporting both ends of the field. In goal, Wojciech Szczęsny fills in admirably for the injured Ter Stegen. Ronald Araujo in defence will be key to maintaining their structure.

Barcelona Suspensions & Injuries

Injuries pose a problem for Barcelona, with several important players sidelined. How they handle these losses will be crucial.

These absences, especially Ter Stegen and Olmo, will test Flick’s squad management. He’ll need to rotate the team smartly and depend on depth to overcome these challenges.

Barcelona Tactics and Formation

Barcelona will likely stick to the 4-3-3 setup in which they flourish. The focus will be on pressing their opponents and keeping ball possession to dictate the flow of the game. On the wings, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha provide width, with Lewandowski spearheading the attack to break down Atalanta’s defence.

The midfield trio, led by Pedri, will aim to control the centre, offering dynamic play and supporting the attack. In defence, Szczęsny and the pair of Araujo and Pau Cubarsí will be entrusted with keeping things tight at the back.

Atalanta Team Analysis

Atalanta Recent Performance

With three wins, a draw, and a loss in their last five games, Atalanta have had a mixed bag of results. They’ve However, despite the loss and a draw, they have scored 15 goals, conceding only four in the five games.

Their big win against Sturm Graz boosts their confidence in high-stakes European settings. So far, with five clean sheets in the Champions League, they show commendable discipline.

Atalanta Key Players

Despite Lookman’s absence, Atalanta has Mateo Retegui leading their attack. He’s the top scorer in Serie A with 16 goals, making him a major threat. In midfield, Mario Pasalic is crucial for creating opportunities and advancing their play.

At the back, Berat Djimsiti is key for resilience against Barcelona’s attack. Goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi must stay sharp, ensuring their defensive steadiness.

Atalanta Suspensions & Injuries

Atalanta also faces injury issues with some important players on the sidelines.

Scamacca and Lookman’s injuries are significant blows. Coach Gasperini needs to adapt his tactics to cover for these absentees and maintain team coherence.

Atalanta Tactics and Formation

Atalanta usually deploys a 3-4-1-2 formation, balancing play while attacking down the flanks. Their solid back three and wing-backs, Raoul Bellanova and Matteo Ruggeri, are vital for stretching the field.

Midfield, led by De Roon, is crucial for breaking up Barcelona’s attacks and quick counterattacks. Up front, Retegui and De Ketelaere form the striking pair, ready to pounce on any chances.

Barcelona vs Atalanta Head-to-Head Statistics

This meeting is a first for Barcelona and Atalanta in European contests. With no past encounters, both line up fresh, aiming to showcase their styles without the weight of previous results.

The lack of past meetings stirs excitement, as both teams will face the unknown in each other. Players’ skills and tactical displays will steer the game. Fans can expect a gripping contest as Atalanta’s structured defence counters Barcelona’s vibrant attack.

Where to watch FC Barcelona vs Atalanta

Fans can watch the epic clash between FC Barcelona vs Atalanta on Sony Sports Network. OTT users can tune in to Sony LIV.