Bayer Leverkusen is inching closer for a possible treble, if they win their Europa League finals against an impressive Atalanta BC side. Going into this finals, both Leverkusen and Atalanta dominated their semi-finals series. Leverkusen heads into this match from a 402 aggregate semi-finals win against AS Roma, despite a draw on the second leg. As Leverkusen remains to be unbeaten, they have a high chance to get closer to a treble with a win here. Meanwhile, for Atalanta, they had an impressive 4-1 aggregate semi-finals win against Marseille. Atalanta are hoping to finally clinch their first-ever Europa League title through this meeting. The finals of the Europa League will be on May 23, 2024, at 3:00 AM (GMT+8).
Bayer Leverkusen
Bayer Leverkusen, previously known as ‘Neverkusen’, have risen to the top of the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Champions League. After struggling in the bottom half of the table under Xabi Alonso, they have risen to the top with 90 points, ending Bayern Munich’s 11-year reign of dominance. Under their head coach, they have racked up 135 goals in all competitions this term, while conceding only 39. Leverkusen is looking to lift their second European trophy, following the 1988 UEFA Cup. They have become renowned for scoring crucial late goals, and their continental adventure could have ended earlier if not for their never-say-die spirit. They overcame Qarabag 2-0 in both last-16 legs and Roma, and could become just the fourth team to lift the trophy unbeaten.
Xabi Alonso has a clean sheet of health, allowing him to select freely from his Bundesliga-winning squad for the final. Players like Pietro Hincapie and Granit Xhaka are set to be recalled, and a ‘false nine’ may be employed. Basque boss Leverkusen will call on star player Florian Wirtz.
Atalanta BC
Atalanta, a Bergamo club, is set to face Leverkusen in a European final on Wednesday evening. The Italian team, could become the first Serie A side to win the Europa League if they avoid falling at the final hurdle. Under coach Gian Piero Gasperini, Atalanta has become regulars on the European stage. They managed three Champions League qualifications in a row. However, Gasperini has yet to lift silverware, with his team losing the Coppa Italia final to Juventus for the second time in four years. The tactical battle between Gasperini and Alonso is expected to be fascinating. Atalanta faced only 2.8 shots on target per game in the Europa League so far. This is the lowest ratio of any side to participate. Last weekend, they secured a top-five finish and a cherished Champions League return.
Atalanta should rely on Gianluca Scamacca, as he has six Europa League goals this season. Emil Holm and Sead Kolasinac are back from injury, but Marten De Roon will be sidelined due to a thigh strain. Kolasinac or Scalvini should join Isak Hien and Berat Djimsiti.
Prediction:
Bayer Leverkusen (2.0)
Odds: -0.88
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