Serie A 2022/23: Why Atalanta could not overcome offensive hurdles against a stubborn Lecce defence – tactical analysis

Lecce, led by Marco Baroni, defeated Atalanta thanks to the teams ability to effectively defend against attacks. To Gian Piero Gasperinis astonishment, Lecce was able to silence the home crowd.

Atalanta have been competing for a berth in the UEFA Champions League by presently appearing in the Europa League. Despite being three points behind Jose Mourinhos Roma, Gasperinis team are still holding on to hope. Juventus had 15 points deducted for financial issues and are now nearly nine points behind Atalanta.

Lecces recent success against the leagues best teams—theyve beaten Lazio, drawn with Milan, and now beaten Atalanta twice in a row—is a league first since the 1993–1994 season. The Giallorossi are determined to finish in the top half of the league in what has been a spectacular season thus far.

In this tactical analysis, well examine Atalantas offensive woes, not just from this game but also their recent matches to see if we can draw any conclusions that will help them improve their attack. Atalantas offensive tactics under Gasperinis guidance will also be dissected here.

Lineups

Gasperini resorted to his tried-and-tested 3-4-1-2 formation, which he has used in over 43% of the games this season. With a three-man defence in front of him, Juan Musso got the nod to start in goal. On Merih Demirals left and right stood Berat Djimsiti and Rafael Tolói, respectively.

Teun Koopmeiners and Éderson José formed the centre of midfield, while Joakim Maehle and Davide Zappacosta patrolled the wings. Jeremie Boga, formerly of Sassuolo, began in the middle of the field as an offensive midfielder, with Ademola Lookman and Rasmus Højlund playing up front.

Baroni opted for his go-to 4-3-3 formation, which he has used about 40% of the time this year. In goal, Wladimiro Falcone got the start, while Alessandro Tuia and Federico Baschirotto were the starting centre-back pairing. Left and right back were Antonino Gallo and Valentin Gendrey.

With Youssef Maleh and Alexis Blin positioned directly above him, Morten Hjulmand was tasked with playing the role of a single pivot. Assan Ceesay was the lone striker in the starting lineup, with Lameck Banda and Federico Di Francesco on the wings.

Why key passes are crucial for positional attacks

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