Bergamaschi ready to answer for January's defeat: prediction for Atalanta vs Athletic
The friendly between Atalanta and Athletic Bilbao is set for August 14, 2026. Both squads enter the new season under fresh management, using these final tune-ups to test tactical ideas, and the results of their recent friendlies suggest we can expect an open, attacking game.
Atalanta: Sarri's blueprint is already visible
Last season was a rollercoaster for the Bergamaschi. Despite a surge in form in the campaign's second half, they managed to win just one of their final seven matches, finishing seventh and booking a spot in the Conference League.
This summer, Atalanta appointed Maurizio Sarri as head coach, and under his guidance, the team has already played three friendlies. The Bergamo side beat Arezzo 3-2 and Schalke 3-0, but lost 1-2 to Feyenoord in between - each match featuring at least three goals.
Athletic: run of big wins halted in France
The Basques wrapped up last season in a disappointing 12th place in La Liga, with their best cup run being a semifinal finish in the Copa del Rey. After Ernesto Valverde's departure, Edin Terzić took over and oversaw a busy preseason for Athletic.
Domestically, the results were impressive: 3-0 over Derio, 11-0 against Lejona, 2-0 versus Sestao, 3-0 against Racing, and 3-0 over Burgos, plus a 2-2 draw with Eibar. Their first real foreign test proved tougher - away to Marseille, the Basques fell 1-3.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Atalanta's last three games have all featured over 2.5 goals.
- Athletic's four most recent matches have also been high-scoring affairs.
- In January 2026, Athletic defeated Atalanta 3-2 on their home turf in the Champions League.
Goals look almost inevitable: Atalanta vs Athletic prediction
Both teams are in transitional phases and still lack defensive cohesion. However, their attacking output in friendlies has been impressive, making a scenario with three or more goals look more than likely.
Atalanta have faced stiffer preseason tests and have already shown under Sarri that they're capable of creating plenty of chances. In this evenly matched friendly, the quality of their squad and their current attacking form give the Bergamaschi a slight edge.
