Europa League Final Preview: Unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen take on Atalanta
Europa League Final 2024: Bayer Leverkusen vs. Atalanta (in Dublin, Ireland)
The stage is set for a thrilling Europa League final as Bayer Leverkusen, the undefeated champions of the Bundesliga, face off against Atalanta, a team in scorching form from Serie A. Under the meticulous guidance of coach Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen have not only clinched the domestic league title but also remain unbeaten across all competitions this season, positioning themselves for an unprecedented treble.
Meanwhile, Atalanta, currently 5th in Serie A, are riding a wave of momentum. With the opportunity to break into the top four and secure Champions League qualification if they win their remaining league fixtures, Gian Piero Gasperini’s men are poised to give everything in this high-stakes encounter. This final promises to be a captivating clash of styles and strategies, with both teams eyeing European glory.
Road to the Final:
Bayer Leverkusen:
Bayer Leverkusen’s journey to the Europa League final has been nothing short of dominant. They started their campaign in Group H, winning all six matches, including a 4-0 victory over Häcken and a 5-1 win against Molde. In the knockout stages, Leverkusen faced Qarabağ in the Round of 16, progressing with a 5-4 aggregate win after a 2-2 away draw and a 3-2 home victory. In the quarter-finals, they defeated West Ham United 3-1 on aggregate. Leverkusen then triumphed over Roma in the semi-finals with a 4-2 aggregate victory, securing their place in the final against Atalanta.
Atalanta:
Atalanta’s road to the final has been impressive, starting with a strong group stage performance in Group D, where they recorded four wins and two draws. Key victories included a 2-0 win over Raków and a 4-0 win against Raków in the return fixture. In the Round of 16, they edged out Sporting CP with a 3-2 aggregate win. The quarter-finals saw Atalanta stun Liverpool. They won 3-1 on aggregate but stunned the world by beating Liverpool 3-0 at Anfield. In the semi-finals, they dispatched Marseille with a 4-1 aggregate win, earning their spot in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.
Europa League Final – Team News
Bayer Leverkusen:
Bayer Leverkusen have the advantage of a nearly full squad. Star player Florian Wirtz, who has been dealing with a thigh injury, made a return by playing the final 30 minutes against Augsburg on Saturday and is in contention to start in the final in Dublin.
Atalanta:
By contrast, Atalanta will be missing their captain, Marten de Roon, for the final. Additionally, former Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac, who has been sidelined for the past three weeks with a thigh injury, is doubtful alongside Emil Holm.
Leverkusen and Atalanta – Key Players
Leverkusen: Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz has developed into a pivotal player for Bayer Leverkusen, known for his ability to control the tempo of the game and create opportunities. In the Europa League this season, Wirtz has made 10 appearances, accumulating 622 minutes on the pitch. He has scored 4 goals and provided 4 assists, showcasing his dual threat as both a scorer and a playmaker. His passing accuracy stands at an impressive 86.1%, and he has been instrumental in Leverkusen’s unbeaten run. Wirtz’s vision, technical skills, and composure make him the player who pulls the strings in Leverkusen’s midfield, and his presence in the final could be decisive for their success.
Atalanta: Gianlucca Scamacca
Gianluca Scamacca will be crucial for Atalanta in the final, especially in a match where Leverkusen are expected to dominate possession. Scamacca’s role as a clinical striker means that he must capitalize on any chances Atalanta create. In the Europa League this season, Scamacca has been a consistent goal threat, scoring six goals, and his ability to finish efficiently will be vital against a strong Leverkusen defense. Given the dynamic nature of Atalanta’s attack, Scamacca’s knack for finding the back of the net could make all the difference in a high-stakes game.
Both players are expected to play central roles for their teams, with Wirtz orchestrating Leverkusen’s offensive play and Scamacca needing to be at his best to convert any opportunities for Atalanta.
Europa League Final – Key Statistics
- Bayer Leverkusen have not lost in 55 matches. This is one of their biggest tests of the season.
- Leverkusen and Atalanta faced each other twice in the 2021/22 Europa League, with Atalanta winning both fixtures
- Atalanta have won five straight Serie A matches
- In the Europa League, five of Leverkusen’s previous seven matches have both teams score at least once
- Atalanta have scored in 11 of their last 12 matches in the Europa League competition
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter
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