Liverpool FC are preparing themselves for an exciting clash against Atalanta BC, for the first leg of their quarterfinals. Coming into this match, these two teams had a different journey before the quarterfinals, which affects their momentum. Liverpool had a dominant 11-2 win against Sparta during their knockout stage campaign. It is not surprising though, as Liverpool is one of the top teams domestically right now, and are dominant this season. Meanwhile, Atalanta had a more difficult run before qualifying in the quarterfinals. Atalanta had a narrow 3-2 win on aggregate against Sporting, which earned them qualification. The meeting between these two teams is on April 12, 2024, a 3:00 AM (GMT+8).
Liverpool FC
Liverpool’s first-place finish in the Europa League group stage was assured, as they bypassed a tricky playoff tie with Sparta Prague to advance to the last 16. Liverpool showed ruthlessness with a 5-1 win away from home and a 6-1 win in the Anfield return fixture. Four of Liverpool’s goals were scored in the opening 14 minutes, a record for a 4-0 lead in a Europa League contest. Liverpool have now progressed to their third quarter-final appearance in the competition. However, they have faced Manchester United-inflicted misery. A a 2-2 Premier League draw leaving them below new leaders Arsenal on goal difference. Despite this, Liverpool’s attacking commitment remains strong, with them now aiming to become the second team to score at least four goals in five separate UEFA Cup/Europa League contests in a single season.
Liverpool’s seven injury victims are expected to be fit for the first leg of their quarter-final match against Crystal Palace. Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Diogo Jota are expected to participate in partial training. Long-term absentees include Joel Matip, Ben Doak, Thiago Alcantara, and Stefan Bajcetic.
Atalanta BC
Atalanta, led by Ruben Amorim, have eliminated Sporting Lisbon’s team, aiming to end Klopp’s hopes of a last continental hurrah. The team, which eliminated Sporting Lisbon with a 1-1 draw, has now reached their third European quarter-final in their last five seasons. However, the previous two European quarter-finals have ended in disappointment for Atalanta, who lost to Paris Saint-Germain in the 2019-20 Champions League and RB Leipzig in the Europa League two seasons ago. The team has been knocked out of the Coppa Italia by Fiorentina. Additionally, a 2-1 top-flight loss at Cagliari, leaving them sixth in the rankings and eight points off the top four. Atalanta’s attacking style has failed them recently, with only two of their last nine games ending in victory.
Atalanta’s centre-back Giorgio Scalvini is expected to miss the match due to injury. Charles De Ketelaere is available, but is behind two names for starting in the top 10. Aleksey Miranchuk set up Atalanta’s second-leg strikes against Sporting, while Teun Koopmeiners, linked with a move to Liverpool, is expected to be the visitors’ chief creator.
Prediction:
Liverpool FC (2.5)
Odds: -0.85
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