Bayer Leverkusen Vs Atalanta: Bayer Leverkusen and Atalanta lock horns in the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 Final at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, as both sides are less than 6 hours away from attaining European glory. Bayer Leverkusen are coming off a memorable weekend, as they ended their Bundesliga season as 'Invincibles'.
However, it was not a sweet weekend for Atalanta, who suffered a 1-0 loss to Juventus in the Coppa Italia final, and their only hope for silverware this season is the UEFA Europa League, where a mighty Bayer Leverkusen stand in their way.
There are many taking points from the fixture, be it the Bayer Leverkusen's knack for scoring late goals, or Florian Wirtz's magical feet. Here are the 5 key points to look forward to in the epic encounter:
1. Bayer's Overlapping Fullbacks
Alejandro Grimaldo and Jeremie Frimpong have terrorised opposition's defences with overlapping runs, as Xabi Alonso has used the duo as wing-backs and the duo have combined for 19 goals and 20 assists in Bundesliga alone and Atalanta will be vary of the threat they possess.
2. Late Goals From Bayer Leverkusen
Bayer Leverkusen have managed to breach the deadlock of the opposition on numerous occasions this season, but have failed to stop them from scoring back on many occasions. However, what made people call Bayer Leverkusen Bayer 'Neverlusen' is the fact that they have a knack for scoring late goals and have done so on more than 18 occasions this season itself, which has salvaged their unbeaten run this season.
3. Unbeaten Streak In 2023/24 Season
The fact that Bayer Leverkusen are still unbeaten in all competitions this season adds on to the fact that the Bundesliga club did not require merely late goals to stay unbeaten. Xabi Alonso's men have produced some stellar 4-0, 5-0 wins this season as well, and the tag of unbeatable will surely have a psychological impact on Atalanta.
4. Charles De Ketelaere's Impressive Movement
Charles De Ketelaere has been one of the best players for Atalanta this season and has immense quick fire and a good positioning to create chance for his players. Bayer Leverkusen can be outnumbered at back because of the fierce counter-attack ability that Atalanta possesses.
5. Florian Wirtz' Immensely Beautiful Footwork
The newly crowned Bundesliga Player of the Season is arguably the individual story of the season in Germany. From a career-threatening ACL injury to this, Florian Wirtz has come a long way and is a strong conteder for Golden Boy award this season. Wirtz has recorded 18 goals and 19 assists this season, but what amazes fans the most is his clever footwork and ability to stay on toes, which tires up defences real quick.