Ajax v Atalanta: Conference League Preview

It’s been a turbulent season so far in Amsterdam – something the fans have become quite used to in recent years. After two lacklustre matches against NEC and Hajduk Split, there are smiles all round in the capital once again following the 5–2 victory at FC Groningen. The question, of course, is whether they can carry this form into the Conference League, where Atalanta Bergamo are their opponents. The Italians, too, are still struggling to find their form. So the question is: who will come out on top at the Johan Cruijff Arena? Here’s our Ajax v Atalanta Bergamo prediction.

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Ajax v Atalanta Bergamo preview

Following their 1–2 defeat to Hajduk Split, Ajax really cannot afford to lose to Atalanta Bergamo. In short: the Amsterdam side have their work cut out for them. Before we move on to our Ajax v Atalanta Bergamo betting tips, we’ve included the latest news on both teams below.

Current Form & Team News

Ajax

It’s still early in the season, but Míchel is already under quite a bit of pressure at Ajax. Ajax have actually dropped just a few too many points, including 2–2 draws against both Excelsior and SC Heerenveen. Nevertheless, the Spanish manager made his mark with an excellent tactical plan against FC Groningen. Ajax dominated proceedings at the Euroborg and scored no fewer than five goals. Jorthy Mokio and Julian Brandt were particularly instrumental, with two goals apiece. Who are in the starting line-up?

Atalanta Bergamo

It hasn’t been Atalanta Bergamo’s season so far. The Lombardy-based side certainly haven’t had an easy run of fixtures, but eleventh place in Serie A is not what Maurizio Sarri is aiming for. On top of that, they have lost no fewer than four of their last five league matches. In the Conference League, they did beat Pafos 3–1, with the northern Italians now having picked up three points. However, there are concerns about the squad’s fitness. Sead Kolasinac also picked up an injury last weekend, meaning the experienced Bosnian is missing from the matchday squad. Can his replacement get the better of Tolu?

Head-to-Head

Ajax and Atalanta Bergamo have faced each other twice in the past. These matches took place in the group stage of the Champions League during the 2020–2021 season. The match in Amsterdam ended in a 2–2 draw, whilst the Italians won 1–0 at home. In short: Ajax are still waiting for their first win against Atalanta Bergamo.

Predicted line-ups

Ajax (4-3-3):

Ter Stegen, Wijndal, Baas, Bouwman, Rosa, Amrabat, Klaassen, Mokio, Brandt, Gloukh, Tolu

Atalanta Bergamo (4-2-3-1):

Carnesecchi, Bernasconi, Obric, Kristensen, Zappacosta, Pasalic, Gaetano, Zalewski, Raspadori, Elmas, Scamacca

Ajax v Atalanta Bergamo betting tips

Betting tip 1: Ajax to win

Following their match against FC Groningen, we have every confidence in Ajax. The Amsterdam side really need to win to stand any real chance of reaching the knockout stages of the Conference League. Add to that the fact that Atalanta have already picked up three points, are struggling with numerous injuries and are in poor form, and there’s a chance they might just decide to call it a day. We’re therefore backing Ajax to win. This will give you odds of 2.17.

Betting tip 2: Julian Brandt

Alongside Jorthy Mokio, Julian Brandt was once again a key player for his team. He scored the 1-0 and 4-1 goals against FC Groningen and showed he’s in fine form. We reckon he’ll take centre stage in the match against Atalanta and score at least once. A goal from Julian Brandt will earn you odds of 3.30.

Prediction: Ajax v Atalanta Bergamo

Final score: Ajax – Atalanta Bergamo 2–1
We expect a hard-fought 2–1 victory for Ajax. The pressure is on Ajax, whilst a draw will undoubtedly be enough for the Italians. We think the Amsterdam side have finally got their act together and are backing a Dutch win.