BERGAMO, Italy – Juventus travels to New Balance Arena on , to face Atalanta in a Coppa Italia quarter-final clash expected to be a tightly contested affair. Both teams are navigating demanding schedules, contributing to a predicted cautious approach and a high probability of a draw in regular time.
A Tactical Stalemate Anticipated
The match presents a compelling tactical dynamic. Atalanta, averaging 1.56 xG in Serie A, demonstrates a balanced profile, with 39% of their matches ending in a draw this season. Juventus, meanwhile, generates 1.88 xG while conceding a remarkably low 0.78 goals per league match. This disparity in offensive creation versus defensive solidity suggests a classic recipe for a stalemate. One team capable of creating chances, the other adept at suppressing them, neither consistently overwhelming opponents.
The Coppa Italia’s quarter-final stage adds another layer of complexity. With both clubs balancing commitments in Serie A and potentially European competitions, a risk-averse approach is anticipated, particularly in the latter stages of the match. This caution is expected to limit late-game risks and prolong a level scoreline.
Jonathan David Poised to Capitalize
Despite the anticipated defensive solidity, Juventus forward Jonathan David is being highlighted as a key player to watch. He has registered five goals in Serie A this season and has found the back of the net in two of his last three appearances. With 7.36 xG, and 6.57 non-penalty xG across roughly 1,066 minutes, David is consistently getting into scoring positions, evidenced by his 30 shots, 15 of which were on target.
Atalanta’s vulnerability in defensive transitions could provide David with the opportunity he needs. A recent 0-0 draw against Como saw Atalanta survive largely due to goalkeeper heroics, despite Como generating a significant 5.24 xG. While Atalanta’s overall defensive baseline is solid (1.26 xGA per match), it isn’t impenetrable. David’s recent form, including a goal against Parma, suggests he is capable of capitalizing on such opportunities. Tight cup ties often hinge on individual moments of brilliance, and David is well-positioned to deliver one.
Recent Form and Head-to-Head Record
Juventus enters the match with a strong record in the Coppa Italia, having reached the quarter-finals for the 18th consecutive time. However, they were unable to progress beyond this stage last season. Their recent form in the competition is impressive, remaining unbeaten in regulation time in four matches (three wins, one draw) and maintaining a scoring streak across eight games, with clean sheets in five of those matches.
Atalanta also boasts a strong record in the Coppa Italia, having reached the quarter-finals for six straight seasons, and reaching the final twice during that period. Their recent form in the competition saw a 4-0 win over Genoa in the opening stage. However, they have struggled to maintain clean sheets recently, having gone 11 games without one before their recent match.
The last head-to-head match between Juventus and Atalanta, played in September 2025 as part of the 2025/26 Serie A season, ended in a 1-1 draw.
Team Lineups and Potential Strategies
Potential Atalanta lineup (3-4-3): Marco Sportiello – Sead Kolašinac, Berat Djimsiti, Isak Hien – Raoul Bellanova, Mario Pašalić, Marten de Roon, Nicola Zalewski – Charles De Ketelaere, Gianluca Scamacca, Kamal Sulemana. Ademola Lookman has moved to Atletico Madrid.
Juventus’s tactical approach is likely to prioritize defensive stability and exploit any vulnerabilities in Atalanta’s transitions. Jonathan David’s positioning and movement will be crucial in this regard.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Bookmakers are favoring a draw in regular time, with odds of +229. Jonathan David is also being tipped to score, with odds of +195. A Same Game Parlay combining a draw, a goal from Jonathan David, and both teams to score is available at +650.
The combination of tactical caution, strong defensive records, and the potential for individual brilliance from Jonathan David suggests a closely fought encounter. While a winner may ultimately emerge, a draw in regular time appears to be the most likely outcome.
