Como vs Atalanta on February 1
On February 1, 2026, Serie A fans will be treated to a fascinating clash between two sides with distinct tactical identities and contrasting ambitions. Como will welcome Atalanta to the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia for a match that carries significant weight for both teams, albeit for very different reasons. Como, sitting mid-table, aims to continue building on their survival campaign and maintain a safe distance from the relegation zone. Atalanta, however, enters the game with European aspirations, hoping to secure a spot in next season's continental competitions. The result of this match could have major ramifications for both teams' objectives for the remainder of the season. The stakes couldn't be higher, and the clash promises a captivating spectacle.
Como: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Como enters this match with a respectable 5-match record, having won 2, drawn 1, and lost 2. Their recent form shows promise, but consistency remains an issue for this side. Under the stewardship of coach Moreno Longo, Como has often played with a disciplined 4-3-3 formation that prioritizes structure over flair. This system is designed to solidify their defense and build attacks gradually, relying on quick transitions and counter-attacks. Despite their defensive-minded approach, Como struggles to retain possession in the final third, with an average possession of just 43% over the last five matches.
One of Como's main strengths is their resilience in the midfield, where key player Gabriele Cioffi provides the necessary balance between defense and attack. He is the engine of their system, breaking up play and distributing the ball efficiently to the forward runners. However, Como's forward line, led by Moustapha Seck, has been inconsistent, failing to create enough clear-cut chances to truly threaten opposition defenses. Their xG of 0.89 per game underlines this deficiency.
In terms of injuries and suspensions, Como will be without defensive stalwart Simone Romagnoli, which could weaken their central defense. This loss will undoubtedly put more pressure on their full-backs, who will need to provide additional defensive cover and join the attack. How well they cope with this challenge will be pivotal to their chances of staving off Atalanta's offensive power.
Atalanta: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Atalanta arrives in Como in fine form, with 3 wins and 2 draws in their last 5 matches. Gian Piero Gasperini's men continue to play their trademark high-pressing, attacking football, characterized by fluid movement and rapid transitions. Atalanta typically line up in a 3-4-1-2 formation, utilizing wing-backs to stretch the opposition and create overloads in wide areas. This tactical setup places heavy emphasis on width and intensity, with attacking midfielder Ademola Lookman often drifting into spaces between the opposition's defense and midfield, orchestrating attacks.
Key to Atalanta's recent success has been their relentless pressing in the opposition’s half, forcing turnovers high up the pitch. This has led to an impressive 2.04 xG per game over the last five matches, with Lookman and fellow forward Rasmus Højlund forming a dynamic partnership that thrives on quick exchanges and direct runs. Atalanta's pressing efficiency has been one of the best in Serie A this season, averaging 16.8 pressing actions per 90 minutes, a stat that could trouble Como's tendency to struggle with ball retention.
However, Atalanta has had its own issues with consistency in defense. While their pressing game can stifle opponents, it leaves them vulnerable to counter-attacks, as evidenced by their 1.5 goals conceded per game in their last 5 fixtures. The absence of central defender Berat Djimsiti through suspension could further weaken their defense, making them even more prone to errors under pressure.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
Historically, Atalanta has enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture, winning 4 of the last 5 encounters. Their last meeting, a 2-1 victory at the Gewiss Stadium earlier in the season, saw Atalanta dominate possession and control the tempo, but Como's resilience and counter-attacks made them dangerous. A notable trend from their previous clashes is the high number of goals, with both teams scoring in 4 out of the last 5 matches. Como’s defense has been a weak point in recent years, and Atalanta's attacking prowess is likely to exploit that once again.
The psychological edge seems to be with Atalanta, who are fighting for European spots and are in far better form. However, Como will feel emboldened by their solid performances against top teams this season and will look to frustrate their visitors with a compact defensive shape and quick counters.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The match will undoubtedly be shaped by a few key individual battles on the pitch. The first and most pivotal battle will take place between Como’s right-back and Atalanta’s left wing-back, Joakim Maehle. Atalanta relies heavily on their wing-backs to create width and overloads, and if Maehle is given space to operate, he could be the difference-maker in this game. Como’s full-backs will have to be at their best to neutralize his impact.
Another crucial battle will unfold in the center of the park, where Como's Gabriele Cioffi will come up against Atalanta's veteran midfielder Marten de Roon. Cioffi’s role as a disruptor and ball distributor will be key in deciding whether Como can stem Atalanta's attacking transitions. If he can get the better of de Roon in the middle, it could prevent Atalanta from establishing their rhythm. However, if de Roon wins this duel, he could help Atalanta dominate possession and dictate the pace.
Finally, the aerial duel between Atalanta’s towering striker Rasmus Højlund and Como’s defense will be pivotal. Højlund’s ability to hold off defenders and convert crosses will put pressure on Como's backline, especially with the absence of Romagnoli. If Como can limit Højlund’s influence, they will have a better chance of containing Atalanta's attacking game.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This match is likely to be an intense battle of contrasting styles. Como will look to play compactly, sitting deep and absorbing pressure, hoping to hit Atalanta on the counter. Atalanta, on the other hand, will look to dominate possession and press high up the pitch, trying to force mistakes in Como’s half. With Atalanta’s pressing game and potent attack, they should be able to break down Como’s defense, but Como’s counter-attacks and resilience could cause problems if Atalanta is caught high up the pitch.
Given the form and quality on display, I predict a 2-1 victory for Atalanta. Expect the match to feature a high xG, with both teams having decent chances. Atalanta’s superior attacking talent should see them edge out Como, but the match will not be without drama, as Como will certainly pose a threat on the break.
Final Thoughts
The key question this match will answer is whether Atalanta's pressing game can break down Como's defensive structure, or whether Como's resilience and counter-attacking will pose a real threat to their European hopes. With both teams desperate for points, expect a thrilling encounter that will keep fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
