Marseille and Atalanta prepare to clash in an electrifying Europa League semi-final match at Stade Velodrome on May 2, 2024.
Both teams aim to secure a crucial advantage in the first leg, with a coveted spot in the final against either Roma or Bayer Leverkusen at stake. Let's delve into the details of what promises to be a compelling fixture.
Current Form
Marseille's Current Form
Despite enduring a challenging period in Ligue 1 with five consecutive losses, Marseille displayed resilience in European competition.
Their recent 2-1 victory over Lens, buoyed by early and late goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Pape Gueye, showcases their potential to return to form at pivotal moments.
Marseille’s journey through the Europa League has been dramatic, notably clinching a quarter-final victory over Benfica on penalties after a stirring home win.
Atalanta's Current Form
Atalanta, on the other hand, is riding a wave of strong performances.
The Italian side defeated Empoli 2-0 last weekend and has won 11 of their last 14 home fixtures.
Notably, their prowess was on full display during a stunning 3-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield in the quarter-finals.
Their unbeaten streak in nine European away games underlines their formidable form away from home.
Team News
Marseille Team News
Marseille will be without Samuel Gigot, who is suspended, and several injured players including Chancel Mbemba and Ismaila Sarr.
However, they welcome back Faris Moumbagna from suspension. Their lineup boasts the likes of Aubameyang, who has scored 10 goals in this season’s Europa League, and Jonathan Clauss and Amine Harit, both of whom have provided six assists.
Atalanta Team News
For Atalanta, Isak Hien’s suspension will likely see Sead Kolasinac stepping into the back three.
Gianluca Scamacca, who has been crucial in Europe with five goals, is expected to lead the attack supported by Charles De Ketelaere and Ademola Lookman.
Key Players
Marseille's Key Players
Aubameyang’s goal-scoring prowess and the creative contributions from Clauss and Harit could be the key to unlocking Atalanta's defence.
Atalanta's Key Players
Scamacca’s striking ability, along with Lookman’s versatility and precision, will pose significant threats to the Marseille backline.
Scoreline Prediction
With both teams demonstrating solid defensive strategies and explosive attacking capabilities, a tightly contested match is expected.
Our prediction for this encounter is a 2-2 draw, setting the stage for an intriguing second leg in Bergamo.
FAQ
What was the score the last time Marseille played Atalanta? This is the first meeting between the two sides in European competition.
Who are Marseille playing next? Marseille will face Atalanta in the second leg of the Europa League semi-finals next week.
Who are Atalanta playing next? After Marseille, Atalanta face Salernitana in Serie A before the return leg.
What time is the kickoff? The match kicks off at 8 PM UK time on May 2, 2024.
