Sporting-Atalanta: a thrilling encounter expected

The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between Sporting and Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League.

Sporting, the Portuguese giants, will be looking to continue their impressive start to the competition, having won their opening two matches. They will be confident of their chances against Atalanta, who have struggled for form in recent weeks.

Atalanta, the Italian underdogs, will be determined to prove that they can compete with the best teams in Europe. They will be looking to their talisman, Duvan Zapata, to lead the line and cause problems for the Sporting defense.

The match is expected to be a close affair, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses. Sporting will be looking to dominate possession and create chances through their skillful midfielders. Atalanta, on the other hand, will be looking to hit Sporting on the counterattack with their pace and power.

The match will be played at the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal, on Wednesday, October 19, 2022. Kick-off is at 8pm local time.

Key players to watch

* Pedro Gonçalves (Sporting): The Portuguese winger has been in excellent form this season, scoring four goals in his last five appearances.
* Duvan Zapata (Atalanta): The Colombian striker is one of the most feared forwards in Europe, and will be looking to add to his tally of 10 goals this season.
* Rodrigo Battaglia (Sporting): The Argentine midfielder is a key part of Sporting's defense, and will be tasked with stopping Atalanta's attack.
* Marten de Roon (Atalanta): The Dutch midfielder is a calming presence in the Atalanta midfield, and will be looking to dictate the tempo of the game.

Prediction

It is a difficult match to predict, but Sporting will be the narrow favorites. They have the home advantage and are in better form than Atalanta. However, Atalanta are a dangerous team and will be looking to cause an upset.

Score prediction: Sporting 2-1 Atalanta