Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Serie A match.
The defeat to Real Madrid (2:3) is unlikely to have seriously impacted Atalanta's morale, as they enter the new round of the Italian championship as league leaders. Visiting Cagliari, the team from Bergamo are expected to pressure the hosts’ penalty area from the outset, and Cagliari’s unstable defence may struggle to contain the favourites.
Cagliari
Since the end of October, Cagliari have secured only one victory in seven Serie A rounds—a solitary match against Verona (1:0) where they did not concede. Against Fiorentina (0:1), the team nearly held out under constant pressure, though the Florentines did not press hard after Danilo Cataldi's goal (0.81–0.29 in xG and 1-3 in shots on target). Over 15 rounds, Cagliari have conceded 25 goals—only four clubs have a worse defensive record.
Atalanta
Atalanta seized their chance to climb to the top of Serie A following Napoli's recent slip-up. They have secured 9 wins and netted 28 goals in their last 10 matches—the best in the competition. Against Real Madrid, they displayed fighting spirit and nearly snatched a draw in the dying minutes; they were statistically more dangerous by xG (2.94–1.57) and registered twice as many shots (20–10).
Cagliari vs Atalanta Prediction
Since the start of October, Atalanta have achieved seven consecutive away victories, scoring at least two goals in each match. Cagliari are unlikely to handle the powerful visitors.
