Atalanta vs Lecce Prediction & Betting Tips (14 September)

As Serie A resumes post-international break, Atalanta welcomes Lecce to the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia in Bergamo for a match that promises more than just points—it’s a test of early-season resilience. Atalanta, now under the stewardship of Ivan Juric following Gian Piero Gasperini’s departure, has opened the campaign with two consecutive 1-1 draws against Pisa and Parma. The team has shown flashes of control and creativity, particularly through Mario Pašalić and Charles De Ketelaere, but has lacked the killer instinct in front of goal. With Champions League duties looming, Juric will be eager to notch his first win and inject momentum into a squad still adjusting to his tactical blueprint.

In contrast, Lecce arrives in Bergamo nursing the sting of a 0-2 defeat to AC Milan and still searching for their first goal of the season. Coach Eusebio Di Francesco has emphasized defensive structure, and while Lecce has conceded only twice in two matches, their attacking output has been worryingly absent. The likes of Gabriel Strefezza and Nikola Krstović have yet to find rhythm, and teenage striker Francesco Camarda—recently sidelined with head trauma—remains a doubt. Lecce’s midfield, anchored by Ramadani and Kaba, will need to disrupt Atalanta’s build-up play to stand a chance of leaving with points.

Injury concerns hover over both camps. Atalanta’s Gianluca Scamacca is nursing an inflamed left knee and remains day-to-day, while Ademola Lookman, after a turbulent summer transfer saga, has been reintegrated but is yet to feature meaningfully. Defensive stalwart Berat Djimsiti returned from international duty with Albania in good form, and Ivan Juric may lean on his leadership at the back. Lecce, meanwhile, will be without Camarda and could rotate in Pierotti or Morente to spark their attack. With both sides averaging over one goal conceded per game in recent outings, defensive lapses could be decisive.

Expect a cagey start, but Atalanta’s superior depth and home advantage should tilt the balance. Lecce’s compact shape may frustrate early, yet the hosts’ pressing and transitional play—especially through De Ketelaere and Pasalic—should eventually break through. A late Lecce goal could add drama, but the prediction stands: Atalanta to edge it 2-1, finally breaking their winless streak and sending a message ahead of their European campaign.