Gian Piero Gasperini’s Atalanta was the most convincing victory of Serie A’s first round. Can the men from Bergamo keep it up against Eusebio Di Francesco’s Roma?
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Roma vs Atalanta Preview
Atalanta, who are still locked up in a tight Europa League battle with FC Copenhagen, are in excellent form to start the season. They’ve won nine out of eleven matches played, including a 4-0 victory over Frosinone to open the new campaign, and have drawn the remaining two. They also beat Di Francesco’s men last term in Rome, meaning Roma will definitely not have it easy on Monday night.
The Champions League semi-finalists weren’t too active on the pitch this summer, with three International Champions Cup games (1-4 loss to Tottenham, 4-2 win against Barcelona and a 1-2 loss to Real Madrid) as the only meaningful fixtures. They had to travel to a hostile Torino environment last weekend and escaped with precious three points thanks to Edin Dzeko’s late moment of inspiration.
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Summer arrival Javier Pastore was in the starting lineup in Turin, while another new acquisition Justin Kluivert came off the bench to provide the assist on the winning goal. Sweden’s World Cup goalkeeper Robin Olsen was between the posts, replacing the departed Alisson.
Roma vs Atalanta Prediction
Atalanta is an attacking team, but with the second leg against Copenhagen scheduled for Thursday, Gasperini might opt for a softer, less enthusiastic approach at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. Roma should be able to take full advantage of that. The contest is set to kick off at 20:30 CET.
Bet365 Odds
If you’re not sure whether Roma will win or not, a 1.8 line for three or more goals is probably your safest bet.
Kevin Strootman undergoing Marseille medical
In case you missed the breaking news, Kevin Strootman was sold to Olympique Marseille, thus left out of the squad for Monday’s fixture. The move comes after Di Francesco secured the signature of 29-year-old defensive midfielder Steven N’Zonzi two weeks ago. The Frenchman might not be inserted into the starting lineup today, but he should be there soon enough.
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Overall, Roma has gone through some changes this summer, but they are still expected to contend with Juventus for the Serie A title. Winning games like today’s will be key in the pursuit of that goal.