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Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction Champions League 21.01.2026

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Last updated: 21/01/2026 10:12
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Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction Champions League 21.01.2026

Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction Champions League

Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction and Betting Tips are here for the Tuesday, January 20, 2026 clash. Scheduled for 20:00 GMT at the New Balance Arena, this game is vital. Viewers checking Today's Champions League Predictions should tune into TNT Sport 8 and Discovery+. Referee Danny Makkelie will oversee the proceedings during this major tournament event under the lights.

The Italians come in hot with thirteen points from five games. They look far more stable than a Bilbao side that has struggled for goals on the road. With the Spaniards failing to score in three straight games, the atmosphere in Bergamo is expected to be electric.

Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao Key Facts and Stats
  • Atalanta remains unbeaten in five games, collecting a solid 2.6 points per game recently.
  • The Italian side has kept three clean sheets in five games, showing massive defensive grit.
  • All eight goals scored by Atalanta in this competition have come during the second half.
  • Athletic Bilbao has failed to find the net in 67% of their matches this season.
  • The Spanish visitors have conceded three goals or more in each of their last three.
  • Bilbao has only managed to score once on the road during this European campaign so far.

Match Preview

Gian Piero Gasperini has turned the New Balance Arena into a fortress lately. The Nerazzurri are currently unbeaten in three home fixtures and look incredibly stable. Can they finally break their hoodoo against Spanish opposition? It has been a long time since they beat a side from Spain.

The stats tell a story of a team that starts slow but finishes with a bang. Every single goal they have managed in the league phase happened after the halftime break. This patience is a hallmark of their recent form, winning four of their last five matches.

Charles De Ketelaere is the man to watch right now for the hosts. The Belgian forward has found the net in back to back European games and looks full of confidence. With rotation options like Lookman returning, the attacking depth for the Italians is truly a major advantage.

Ernesto Valverde has a massive headache regarding his defensive line this week. Bilbao has let in at least three goals in each of their last three games across all competitions. That is simply not good enough for a team with aspirations of reaching the next round.

The lack of goals is equally concerning for the traveling supporters in Bergamo. They have fired blanks in four games this season and haven't scored in their last three outings. Without a major tactical shift, it is hard to see how they trouble the Atalanta back three.

Still, Nico Williams remains a threat despite the team’s collective struggle. He recently broke a scoring drought and will be hungry to prove a point in Italy. Even so, the outcome might ultimately depend on whether they can survive the pressure of Today's Champions League Predictions expectations.

Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino is urging his side to make history by securing a direct spot in the Champions League round of 16. Ahead of the clash with Athletic Bilbao, Palladino confirmed that star forward Ademola Lookman has returned and is ready to feature. Despite recent domestic challenges, the Dea remains focused on achieving a prestigious top-eight finish to cement their European legacy.

Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao Predicted Lineups
Atalanta BC (3-4-2-1)
GK Carnesecchi
DF Kossounou, Hien, Kolasinac
MF Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Bernasconi
C. De Ketelaere, Pasalic
FW Scamacca
OUT
A. Lookman(QUES),
B. Djimsiti(OUT),
R. Bellanova(OUT)
Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1)
GK Simon
DF Areso, Vivian, Paredes, Berchiche
MF Jauregizar, Ruiz De Galarreta
Berenguer, Sancet, N. Williams
FW G. Guruzeta
OUT
A. Laporte(QUES),
B. Prados(OUT),
M. Vesga(OUT),
M. Sannadi(OUT),
N. Serrano(OUT)
Prediction
Atalanta to Win @1.78

Atalanta is currently one of the most in form teams in Europe after taking thirteen points from their last five matches. They look incredibly solid at the New Balance Arena where they have conceded only 0.67 goals per game. Their defensive discipline and tactical flexibility make them heavy favorites.

On the other hand, Athletic Bilbao has been a disaster on their travels lately. They only score 0.33 goals per game away from home and have conceded three goals in each of their last three matches. Their confidence is shot and Atalanta should exploit these massive defensive gaps quite easily tonight.

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FAQ – Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction

Who will win between Atalanta and Athletic Bilbao?

Atalanta are strong favorites at home due to their excellent defensive record and Bilbao's current struggle to score goals on the road.

Where can I watch Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao live?

The Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao Champions League match will be broadcast live on TNT Sport 8 and Discovery+.

What time does Atalanta vs Athletic Bilbao start?

Kickoff is scheduled for 20:00 (GMT) on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

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