Atalanta vs Celtic: Champions League Showdown After Dortmund Debacle

Celtic FC is set to face a significant test in the Champions League as they travel to Italy to take on Atalanta on Wednesday, October 23. This match comes on the heels of a humiliating 7-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in their previous European outing, a result that has raised questions about Brendan Rodgers‘ European strategy.

Atalanta, the Europa League winners from last season, present a formidable challenge. Under the management of Gian Piero Gasperini, they have shown impressive form, including a 2-0 victory over Venezia in their last Serie A match and a 3-0 win against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League. Atalanta is currently sixth in the Serie A table and is pushing for a top-four berth.

The Italian side is dealing with several injuries, including the long-term absences of Gianluca Scamacca and Giorgio Scalvini, both of whom have torn their anterior cruciate ligaments. Additionally, defenders Rafael Toloi and Odilon Kossounou, along with midfielder Marco Brescianini, are doubtful for the match. Despite these setbacks, Atalanta’s attack remains potent, with Mateo Retegui leading the Serie A scoring charts with eight goals in as many games.

Celtic, meanwhile, is looking to bounce back from their heavy defeat in Germany. The Scottish champions are without left-back Greg Taylor due to a calf injury, and there are concerns over the fitness of centre-back Cameron Carter-Vickers, who has been dealing with a toe issue. Alex Valle is expected to fill in for Taylor, and Aaron Trusty could partner Liam Scales in defense if Carter-Vickers is unavailable.

Brendan Rodgers emphasized the importance of belief and tactical discipline in facing a team like Atalanta. “This is a level about belief. These are belief games. You have to go into these and really believe you can get the result,” Rodgers said. He also highlighted the need for a balance between learning from past mistakes, such as the defeat to Dortmund, and maintaining their aggressive playing style.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 5:45 PM BST and will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 4. Atalanta is favored to win, with odds of 2/5, while Celtic is at 6/1 to secure a victory.