Atalanta vs Genoa
Serie A
Sunday
22nd October 2023
Gewiss Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Serie A gameweek 9 fixture between Atalanta and Genoa.
Atalanta vs Genoa: Preview
Atalanta form analysis
The Bergamo outfit have shown both promise and inconsistency during this recent set of Serie A matches. They started with a thrilling 2-3 loss away at Fiorentina despite leading and equalizing through Koopmeiners and Lookman. Atalanta responded well with a solid 2-0 home win over Cagliari thanks to goals from Lookman and Pasalic. They maintained momentum by grinding out a 0-1 away victory at Verona, with Koopmeiners again on target. However, Atalanta were unable to build on this, stumbling to a goalless home draw against Juventus. Most recently, defensive issues resurfaced as they lost a five-goal thriller away at Lazio.
Overall, Atalanta have shown they can score goals but also looked vulnerable defensively across this spell. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini seems to have added more attacking flair with the likes of Lookman impressing. But he needs to improve defensive stability and concentration if Atalanta are to push for Champions League qualification again. Finding the right balance will be crucial. The talent going forward is evident though – if Atalanta can tighten up at the back, they can beat anyone.
Genoa form analysis
Genoa seem to be a team still adapting to life back in the top flight but showing encouraging signs going forward. They started brightly by holding Napoli to a 2-2 home draw, leading twice through Bani and Retegui. A 1-0 away loss at Lecce followed before Genoa earned an impressive 4-1 home win over Roma thanks to goals from Gudmundsson, Retegui, Thorsby and Messias. They were denied a win next up at Udinese, conceding late to draw 2-2 despite another Gudmundsson brace. Most recently, Genoa narrowly lost 0-1 at home to AC Milan after holding out until the 87th minute.
Overall, Genoa have scored goals consistently thanks to the threat of Gudmundsson and Retegui. However, defensive issues remain apparent having conceded at least twice in 4 of these 5 games. If coach Alberto Gilardino can address these defensive vulnerabilities, Genoa have enough firepower to pull clear of relegation danger. Staying solid for 90 minutes is key – the attacking talent is evident but tighter organization is required. With the forwards clicking though, there are positives signs for Genoa’s hopes of Serie A survival.
