The 2024 UEFA Super Cup, a marquee event in European football, is set to kick off at the National Stadium in Warsaw, Poland. The match will feature Real Madrid, the 15-time European champions, taking on Atalanta, the recent victors of the UEFA Europa League. This encounter promises to be a thrilling start to the 2024/25 football season.

Match Details

Real Madrid: The Quest for Glory

Real Madrid, renowned for their insatiable appetite for trophies, are embarking on another season with high expectations. The team has recently welcomed Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain and Brazilian sensation Endrick from Palmeiras, significantly enhancing their attacking prowess. Despite losing experienced players like Nacho Fernandez, Toni Kroos, and Joselu, the squad remains formidable and highly competitive.

Atalanta: A New Chapter in European Success

Atalanta, under the astute management of Gian Piero Gasperini, is riding high after securing their maiden European trophy. Their impressive victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Europa League final highlighted a season of achievement that also saw them reach the Coppa Italia final and secure a top-four finish in Serie A. Although Atalanta has only won two major titles in their history, a triumph in the UEFA Super Cup would be a monumental addition to their accolades.

Team News and Expected Line-ups

Real Madrid: Key Absences and Tactical Insights

David Alaba continues to be sidelined with an ongoing injury, a situation that has persisted for around a year. While his absence is a setback, the focus will be on how Real Madrid integrates their new star players into a cohesive attacking unit. The potential front three of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo is highly anticipated, offering a blend of pace, creativity, and finishing prowess.

Potential Line-up (4-3-3): Thibaut Courtois will be in goal, shielded by Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mendy in defense. The midfield trio is expected to consist of Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eduardo Camavinga, with the attacking trio of Rodrygo, Mbappe, and Vinicius Junior leading the charge.

Injury Concerns: David Alaba remains out with an injury.

Atalanta: Missing Key Players

Atalanta will be without Gianluca Scamacca, who is recovering from an ACL injury, and Giorgio Scalvini, who has not yet returned to full fitness following his absence from UEFA EURO 2024. Despite these setbacks, the team remains robust and capable of challenging their illustrious opponents.

Potential Line-up (3-4-2-1): In goal, Marco Carnesecchi is expected to start, with a defensive trio of Rafael Toloi, Oskar Hien, and Sead Kolasinac. The midfield will feature Davide Zappacosta, Marten De Roon, Ederson, and Matteo Ruggeri. Teun Koopmeiners and Charles De Ketelaere are likely to play just behind the forward, Ademola Lookman.

Injury Concerns: Gianluca Scamacca and Giorgio Scalvini are sidelined.

Match Prediction

As Real Madrid prepares to defend their European crown, they enter the match as favorites due to their extensive experience and recent squad enhancements. Atalanta, despite their commendable season and European success, will face a significant challenge against the Spanish giants. Madrid’s quality and depth, combined with their recent acquisitions, should give them the edge in this encounter. However, Atalanta's ability to score and their resilient play style could make for an exciting and competitive game.

Prediction: Real Madrid to win, with both teams likely to score in an engaging clash.