Serie A 2019/20: Atalanta v A.S. Roma – tactical analysis

Perhaps the significance of today’s Serie A contest between Atalanta and A.S. Roma can be encompassed in the heading ‘battle for final the Champions League spot’. Fourth hosted in fifth, and with Roma trailing the Nerazzurri by three points before the game, the difference in standings at the final whistle could be zero, or six points. Unfortunately for Paulo Fonseca’s Roma, the deficit went from three to six. Although the Giallorossi opened the scoring just before the break to give the away side a surprise lead, Atalanta hit two in the second half with no reply to take all three points.

The tactical analysis below tells the story of the game from a tactical standpoint. Along with the support of key data and statistics, our analysis gives you a comprehensive understanding of both teams’ style of play. Below, we will also look at how Roma tried to nullify the Atalanta attack and where they aimed to get success. Also, what tactics Gian Piero Gasperini employs to create such versatile and effective attacks as Atalanta consistently breakdown their opponent’s backline.

Lineups

Atalanta: 3-4-1-2
Gasperini makes two changes to the side that triumphed over Fiorentina the previous week. Mario Pašalić and Timothy Castagne are withdrawn from midfield to be replaced by Hans Hateboor and Remo Freuler respectively. Top goal scorer Josip Iličić holds his place up front as he looks to better his record of 14 goals already this season.

Roma: 4-1-4-1
By way of injury and suspension, Roma was without five players heading into this game. Six changes were made to the starting XI that suffered a defeat at home to Bologna the previous week, three in midfield and three in the defensive line.  Aleksander Kolarov, Davide Santon and Gianluca Mancini exit the defensive line in place of Leonardo Spinazzola, Federico Fazio and Bruno Peres. Gianluca Mancini finds another place in the starting XI as he replaces the suspended Bryan Cristante who saw red last week against Bologna. While Jordan Vertout and Cengiz Ünder make way for Lorenzo Pellegrini and Justin Kluivert.