David Flower
Dailysports's expert
One of Sunday’s matches in Italy’s 12th round will take place in Bergamo, where Atalanta will host Udinese. Here’s a promising pick on the match outcome with solid chances for success.
Match Preview
The "Goddess" firmly holds the third spot in Serie A with 22 points, just one point shy of the top. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side has been prolific in attack, netting 29 goals—the highest tally in the league—though they have conceded 14. In the last round, Atalanta claimed an impressive 3-0 victory over Napoli on the road, extending their winning streak to five consecutive games. Additionally, they celebrated a Champions League win a few days ago, defeating Stuttgart away (2-0) with second-half goals from Lookman and Nicolo Zaniolo.
Udinese sits in eighth place with 16 points, five points short of the European qualification zone. Under Kosta Runjaic, Udinese has logged five wins, five losses, and one draw, with four of their victories achieved at home. Although they have scored 14 goals, their defense has struggled, conceding 16. Last round, Udinese suffered their third defeat in four matches, falling 0-2 at home to Juventus.
Probable Lineups
- Atalanta: Carnesecchi, Kolasinac, Højlund, Djimsiti, Ruggeri, Ederson, De Roon, Zappacosta, Lookman, De Ketelaere, Retegui
- Udinese: Okoye, Thauvin, Bijol, Cabasele, Ehizibue, Camara, Payero, Karlström, Lovric, Lucca, Devis
Match Facts and Head-to-Head
- Last season, Atalanta won 2-0 at home, while the away match ended in a 1-1 draw.
- Atalanta is unbeaten against Udinese in 13 consecutive matches, with eight wins in this stretch.
- None of the last three encounters saw more than two goals scored.
Prediction
Atalanta’s strong form suggests they should secure all three points in this home fixture. Our pick for the match is Atalanta to win with a -1.5 handicap at odds of 2.13.
