Real Madrid face a crucial test on Tuesday night in Bergamo, where they meet a red-hot Atalanta side in the Champions League. This clash goes beyond just another group-stage match; it could be a defining moment in their campaign.
The defending champions are in an unfamiliar position, sitting 24th out of 36 teams with only six points from five games. With just two matches left, including tonight’s encounter, Madrid must secure victories to avoid elimination. Manager Carlo Ancelotti labeled this match as “the most complicated one between now and the end of the year.”
Building Rivalry with Atalanta
The Spanish giants and Atalanta have started developing an unexpected European rivalry, meeting three times since 2021. Their last meeting saw Madrid claim the European Super Cup in Warsaw. However, Atalanta have since undergone a dramatic transformation. Under Gian Piero Gasperini, they now lead Serie A and have won nine consecutive matches in all competitions.
Atalanta: Formidable Attack and Defense
Atalanta’s offensive strength comes from top scorer Mateo Retegui, who has scored 12 goals. Their style leads Italy in shot-creating actions, key passes, and progressive carries. Defensively, they allow few high-quality chances to opponents. This balance has made Atalanta one of Europe’s toughest teams to beat, a fact Ancelotti noted: “They’ve improved a lot since the Super Cup. They’re on a roll and full of enthusiasm.”
Real Madrid enters this match with a dominant 3-0 victory over Girona in La Liga. However, their away form in high-pressure games has been inconsistent. Losses at Liverpool, San Mamés, and Lille, along with a draw at the Metropolitano, have raised doubts.
Additionally, Madrid faces injury setbacks, but tonight marks the return of Vinícius Jr., whose creativity could be crucial. The Brazilian forward was key to last year’s Champions League run and will lead Madrid’s attack alongside Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe.
Ancelotti’s Focus on Tactical Discipline
Ancelotti cautioned against depending solely on individual talent, stressing the need for tactical discipline. He said, “This team has improved and is in a good dynamic, but against Atalanta, we must be tactically disciplined and take our chances.”
Tonight is an opportunity for Atalanta to extend their unbeaten streak and strengthen their reputation in Europe. For Real Madrid, it’s a test of resilience and adaptation, a chance to avoid group-stage elimination and prove they remain title contenders.
As midfielder Fede Valverde said, “We’re not used to being in this situation. The only way to change that is to go out on the field at our best.”
