Tue Jan 21 16:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Atalanta Aim for Champions League Playoff Berth Against Sturm Graz

**Bergamo, Italy** – Atalanta faces Sturm Graz tonight in a crucial Champions League clash, aiming to secure qualification for the playoffs. Kick-off is at 6:45 PM local time at the Gewiss Stadium. While mathematically, Atalanta could reach the playoffs even with losses in their final two games, coach Gasperini’s team is targeting victory against a struggling Sturm Graz side that has lost five of their six Champions League matches this season.

Atalanta currently sits atop its group with 11 points, four ahead of PSG and Stuttgart. A win today would significantly bolster their chances, and increase the likelihood of achieving their second goal: a place among the top eight teams. To reach the top eight, Atalanta needs at least two more points from their remaining matches.

The match will be broadcast exclusively on Sky in Italy (streaming on Sky Go and Now), TNT Sports 2 and Discovery+ in the UK, and Paramount+ in the USA.

Despite a recent league defeat to Napoli and the sting of a missed opportunity against Real Madrid, Atalanta enters the game as heavy favorites, with betting sites placing odds of 1.20 on an Atalanta win. The team’s attacking duo of Retegui and Lookman, both with strong scoring records in the Champions League, are expected to lead the charge. However, an underestimation of the opponent could cost them the valuable points.

Atalanta will field a 3-4-1-2 formation, while Sturm Graz will opt for a 4-3-1-2. The game promises to be a crucial step in Atalanta’s quest for Champions League glory.

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