Bologna-Atalanta clash for a spot in Europe: reality vs the underdog, formerly the Goddess in 2016

In an intriguing twist of fate, Atalanta is confronted with a familiar situation as they face Bologna in their next crucial game in the battle for a place in Europe. The clash between the teams indicates a shift in the status quo in Italian football, especially since these circumstances echo those of 2016 when, after a critical 2-1 win against Roma with goals from Caldara and Kessié, Atalanta confidently faced Bologna to affirm their influence on the league. At that point, the context is similar to Bologna’s current status after a recent victory over Roma that has put them solidly in the Champions League zone.

This matchup holds additional significance given the presence of Gasperini’s apprentice, Thiago Motta, who was pursued by Atalanta just last year, and Giovanni Sartori, whose work at Bologna recalls his remarkable accomplishments at Atalanta.

For Atalanta, this is set to be the first real crossroads of the season. The campaign’s length notwithstanding, the encounter with Bologna marks a potentially decisive moment due to a number of reasons: the league table gap to be bridged (a mere two points), Atalanta’s determination to maintain their momentum, and, most importantly, a potential turning point in mentality.

A victory, particularly one driven by determination and resilience, could bolster Atalanta’s self-belief. On the flip side, a defeat could dent their morale while simultaneously boosting that of Bologna’s, a team that shows no sign of slowing down. The hunger of the underdog, exemplified in Gasperini’s early reign at Atalanta, weighs heavily in this matchup, with the coveted places in Europe still up for grabs. Everything now depends on Atalanta’s performance in this significant game, given that the duel between them and Bologna is likely to continue till the end of the season.