There’s no denying it: Real Madrid instills fear in all opponents. Especially now, with the addition of Kylian Mbappé to an already star-studded roster. However, Atalanta has a unique opportunity ahead of them. They must believe in themselves, leave everything on the pitch, and hope for a bit of luck—something essential when facing such daunting challenges. Beyond that, Atalanta can truly trouble Ancelotti’s team with clear strategies.
How can they hope to stop the “monsters”? First and foremost, they should hope to catch them unready—at least less formidable than they could be. In August, it’s normal that Atalanta isn’t at its peak, especially not like it was three months ago in Dublin. Moreover, coach Gian Piero Gasperini will have limited cards to play. Yet, among the available players, some have been working hard for a month, and a key tactic will be to push for the highest possible game tempo as long as their legs will allow. This is something that Real has struggled with, as evidenced by their first-half performance in the Champions League final.
Physical condition will play a significant role, but psychological readiness may matter even more. As Ademola Lookman stated yesterday, there’s never a perfect time to face a top team like Real. However, it will be crucial to maintain the right mental attitude to align with the objective reality: it’s suggested that Madrid may not be at their finest state or cohesive in their tactics. Thus, the right mindset could be to avoid overthinking the challenge.
Staying fully concentrated is critical. A repeat of the lessons learned from their loss to St. Pauli, where they conceded three goals in under fifteen minutes, is a scenario they must avoid. If Atalanta can’t maintain a high level of concentration throughout the match, the scoreline could be disastrous against a side like Real.
This is the perfect moment to challenge the notion that Atalanta only defends man-to-man. This time, more than ever, teamwork will be essential; everyone must work closely together. Few teams have the quality to let a single defender face off with talents like Mbappé, Vinícius, and Rodrygo. Atalanta must avoid leaving anyone isolated and ensure that there are no gaps behind their defensive line. Traditionally, their defense isn’t quite low, but it might be for certain moments of the game, depending on the available energy and opportunities.
Real sometimes struggles against intense and continuous pressing. An aggressive approach, exercised with caution, is necessary because Real has players who can punish any lapse of concentration when given space.
Beyond the three superstars, particularly Rodrygo on the right, Vinícius on the left, and theoretically Mbappé in the middle, there are also tactical variations Ancelotti might consider. Past encounters remind Atalanta just how impactful Mbappé can be even if introduced later in the game. Vinícius has previously played in a central role, with Kylian floating in from the left, showcasing their versatility.
The characteristics of these players are well-known: it’s almost impossible to match Vinícius’s pace. The best defense relies on anticipating and cutting him off without leaving oneself exposed. The same holds true for Mbappé, who can also use his physicality to his advantage. Rodrygo may not be as quick, but he is technically brilliant—rendering him unpredictable and challenging.
The greatest risk arises when facing Jude Bellingham, who can pull defenders out of position. If he plays as a “false nine,” where he found great success last season, Atalanta could struggle to keep track of him. With Jude potentially returning to his natural role in midfield, he would have the freedom to explore more options toward goal, making him even more dangerous.
Atalanta’s tactical plan must involve intense focus from players like Marten de Roon and João Pedro Palhinha, to limit the balls and to keep them as “dirty” as possible for Bellingham and other playmakers from Real Madrid.
While Real’s defense is not impenetrable, and their collective work might not be completely harmonious, Gasperini has limited offensive options. If Ancelotti decides to unleash multiple forwards, it could force Atalanta into a different formation, perhaps with Pasalic and de Roon playing more central roles. If not, they may choose a wider approach with players like Charles De Ketelaere and Lookman creating depth and seeking a two-on-one situation on the flanks to exploit any weaknesses in the Madrid lineup.