As Serie A resumes after the holiday break, all eyes turn to the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo for a thrilling clash between Atalanta BC and AS Roma on January 3, 2026. This Matchday 18 encounter pits two ambitious sides against each other, with Atalanta aiming to solidify their top-four push and Roma looking to climb the table under new management. Kick-off is set for 7:45 PM GMT, promising high-stakes action in Italy’s premier league. In this comprehensive preview, we’ll cover recent form, head-to-head stats, team news, potential lineups, and our score prediction to help fans and bettors alike.
Recent Form: Atalanta’s Home Strength vs Roma’s Inconsistency
Atalanta, managed by the legendary Gian Piero Gasperini, have shown resilience this season despite a mixed bag of results. Their recent Serie A form reads L-W-L-W-W-L, with a notable 1-0 defeat to league leaders Inter Milan on December 28, 2025, snapping a brief unbeaten streak. However, La Dea have been formidable at home, winning four straight league matches at the Gewiss Stadium before that loss. Key wins include a 1-0 victory over Genoa and a 2-1 triumph against Cagliari, highlighting their high-pressing style and clinical finishing. In all competitions, they’ve managed W-L-W-W-W-L, scoring efficiently but occasionally vulnerable defensively.
Roma, on the other hand, have experienced ups and downs under their current setup. Their Serie A form is W-L-L-W-L-W, culminating in a convincing 3-1 win over Genoa on December 29, 2025 – their third victory in four recent outings. Yet, away form remains a concern, with three losses in their last four road games, often by narrow margins. In broader competitions, the Giallorossi posted L-L-W-W-L-W, including a strong 3-0 Europa League win at Celtic. Paulo Dybala and new signings like Evan Ferguson have added flair, but defensive lapses have cost them points.
Both teams enter this fixture with momentum from their last wins, but Atalanta’s home advantage could prove decisive in this Serie A showdown.
Team News and Injuries: Key Absences for Both Sides
Atalanta will miss several players due to international duties and injuries. Ademola Lookman and Odilon Kossounou are away at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Raoul Bellanova is sidelined with an injury and Mitchel Bakker remains out long-term with a knee issue. Kamaldeen Sulemana (muscle) is also unavailable, and Davide Zappacosta is doubtful with a flexor problem. Gianluca Scamacca will spearhead the attack, supported by creative forces like Charles De Ketelaere.
For Roma, absences include Neil El Aynaoui (international duty/injury), Evan Ndicka (AFCON), and Lorenzo Pellegrini (hamstring strain). Edoardo Bove is out with a heart problem, and there are fitness concerns for Evan Ferguson and Paulo Dybala, though both are expected to feature. Artem Dovbyk has returned from a thigh issue but may not start. Bryan Cristante is available, adding midfield stability.
Potential Lineups: How the Teams Could Shape Up
Based on recent outings and expert predictions, here’s how both sides might line up in a tactical battle:
Atalanta Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1):
- GK: Marco Carnesecchi
- Defenders: Berat Djimsiti, Isak Hien, Sead Kolasinac
- Midfielders: Nicola Zalewski (or Lorenzo Bernasconi if Zappacosta is fit), Marten de Roon, Ederson, Davide Zappacosta (or Yunus Musah)
- Forwards: Charles De Ketelaere, Mario Pasalic; Gianluca Scamacca
Atalanta’s flexible system allows for quick transitions, with De Roon anchoring the midfield.
Roma Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1):
- GK: Mile Svilar
- Defenders: Gianluca Mancini, Jan Ziolkowski, Mario Hermoso
- Midfielders: Zeki Celik, Manu Kone, Bryan Cristante, Wesley França
- Forwards: Matias Soule, Paulo Dybala; Evan Ferguson
Roma’s setup emphasizes counter-attacks, with Dybala’s creativity key to unlocking Atalanta’s defense.
Score Prediction: Atalanta to Edge a Thrilling Encounter
Considering Atalanta’s strong home record, recent dominance in this fixture, and Roma’s away struggles, we predict a narrow victory for the hosts. Both teams boast potent attacks, so expect goals – but La Dea’s pressing game should overwhelm Roma in key moments.
Our Prediction: Atalanta 2-1 Roma
