The UEFA Super Cup brings together the reigning Champions League and Europa League winners in a highly anticipated clash.
This year, Real Madrid faces Atalanta in Warsaw on August 14, 2024. Here's an in-depth look at the match, including predictions, team news, and recent form.
Real Madrid: Form and Team News
Real Madrid, after adding their 15th Champions League title last season, continues to solidify their dominance in European football. Under Carlo Ancelotti, Los Blancos also secured the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup, making them a formidable opponent.
Their pre-season has been a mixed bag, with wins against Chelsea and Albacete, but losses to AC Milan and Barcelona. Notably, Kylian Mbappé has joined the squad, aiming to make an immediate impact.
In terms of team news, Real Madrid will be without David Alaba, who is recovering from an ACL injury, and Eduardo Camavinga is doubtful due to a training knock.
However, Mbappé, along with key players like Vinicius Junior, Dani Carvajal, and Jude Bellingham, are expected to start.
Predicted Real Madrid Starting XI: Courtois; Carvajal, Rudiger, Militao, Mendy; Valverde, Tchouameni, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappé, Vinicius Junior.
Atalanta: Form and Team News
Atalanta earned their place in the UEFA Super Cup by winning the Europa League, their first European title in the club’s history.
Despite a strong finish to last season, including a fourth-place in Serie A, their pre-season form has been concerning with a draw against AZ Alkmaar and heavy losses to Parma and FC St. Pauli.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side has been bolstered by new signings such as Charles De Ketelaere, Mateo Retegui, and Ben Godfrey.
However, they face several injury concerns, including Gianluca Scamacca and Giorgio Scalvini, both out with ACL injuries. Additionally, Teun Koopmeiners, who has submitted a transfer request, is unlikely to feature.
Predicted Atalanta Starting XI: Musso; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, Pasalic, Ederson, Ruggeri; Lookman, De Ketelaere; Retegui.
Prediction
Given the depth and quality of Real Madrid’s squad, coupled with Atalanta’s shaky pre-season form, Real Madrid is favoured to win this match. Their attacking prowess, led by Mbappé, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo, is expected to overwhelm the Italian side.
A 3-1 victory for Real Madrid seems a likely outcome, with the possibility of Mbappé marking his debut with a goal.
Real Madrid 
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