PSG vs Atalanta Preview: Prediction, Team News and Where to Watch the Match LIVE

Wednesday’s Champions League encounter at Parc des Princes takes center stage in our PSG vs Atalanta prediction and preview. Can the defending champions begin their title defense on a winning note despite their injury crisis?

PSG vs Atalanta: Preview

European champions Paris Saint-Germain begin their ambitious quest to become the first team since Real Madrid to win back-to-back Champions League titles when they host Atalanta at the Parc des Princes, though their preparations have been severely disrupted by a mounting injury crisis.

Luis Enrique’s defending champions secured their maiden European crown with a stunning 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in last season’s final, ending decades of continental heartbreak for the Parisian giants. However, their title defense begins under the darkest of clouds following a catastrophic international break that has decimated their attacking options.

The loss of Ousmane Dembélé, widely considered a leading Ballon d’Or contender after his instrumental role in PSG’s historic treble, represents the most significant blow. The French winger suffered a serious right hamstring injury while on international duty and faces six weeks on the sidelines, ruling him out of crucial early Champions League fixtures.

Désiré Doué’s four-week absence with a right calf strain compounds PSG’s problems, while fresh injury concerns emerged during their 2-0 victory over Lens. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was forced off after 30 minutes with a calf issue, though initial tests suggest no major damage and he remains hopeful of featuring against Atalanta.

Lee Kang-in and Lucas Beraldo also sustained injuries during the Lens encounter, with only Beraldo remaining “under treatment” according to the latest medical updates. The Brazilian left-back’s ankle sprain adds to Enrique’s defensive headaches ahead of this crucial opener.

Despite these setbacks, PSG have maintained their perfect domestic form with four consecutive Ligue 1 victories, demonstrating the squad depth that made their European triumph possible. Bradley Barcola has emerged as a key figure, scoring a brace against Lens and establishing himself as a crucial component of Enrique’s attacking system.

The Spanish coach, managing his 63rd Champions League match with a 65% win rate, will lean heavily on experienced campaigners like Vitinha, whose creative influence becomes even more critical in the absence of Dembélé and Doué. The Portuguese playmaker represents PSG’s primary creative hub and will be tasked with unlocking Atalanta’s typically stubborn defense.

Atalanta arrive in Paris seeking to build on their impressive European pedigree under Ivan Juric, who makes his Champions League managerial debut after replacing Gian Piero Gasperini. The Italian side’s inconsistent start to Serie A, with two wins and two defeats from their opening four fixtures, masks their underlying quality and European experience.

La Dea’s 4-1 victory over Lecce demonstrated their attacking potential, with Charles De Ketelaere stepping up as the team’s creative leader in the absence of several key players. The 24-year-old Belgian has embraced the responsibility of guiding Atalanta on Europe’s biggest stage and will be central to their hopes of causing an upset in Paris.

However, Atalanta’s preparations have been complicated by the ongoing Ademola Lookman saga. The Nigerian forward remains frozen out by Juric following his failed summer transfer attempt, with the coach maintaining his stance that the player must apologize for his behavior before returning to the squad.

The absence of Lookman, who finished last season with 20 goals across all competitions, significantly weakens Atalanta’s attacking threat. His pace and directness would have been ideal weapons against PSG’s high defensive line, but Juric has shown no willingness to compromise on his principles.

Both teams carry the scars of their previous Champions League encounters, though for vastly different reasons. PSG will remember their dramatic 2-1 comeback victory in the 2020 quarter-finals, when Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting became an unlikely hero with a stoppage-time winner. For Atalanta, that defeat remains one of their most painful European memories, having led for most of the match before two late goals broke their hearts.

PSG vs Atalanta: Head-to-Head

The history between these two clubs is remarkably brief but unforgettable, defined by one of the most dramatic Champions League encounters in recent memory. PSG hold a perfect record against Atalanta, having won their solitary previous meeting in spectacular fashion during the 2020 quarter-finals.

That encounter in Lisbon on August 12, 2020, will forever be etched in Champions League folklore as one of the competition’s greatest comebacks. Atalanta, appearing in their first-ever Champions League quarter-final, took a deserved lead through Mario Pasalic’s 27th-minute curling effort and appeared destined for a historic semi-final berth.

The Italian side’s defensive discipline and tactical organization frustrated PSG for the majority of the match, with Neymar enduring a torrid evening in front of goal despite his mesmerizing dribbling displays. The Brazilian completed 16 successful dribbles – the most by any player in a single Champions League game since Lionel Messi’s performance against Manchester United in 2008.

As the match entered its dying moments, Atalanta seemed certain to achieve one of the competition’s greatest giant-killing acts. However, football’s cruel nature was perfectly demonstrated in a devastating three-minute period that changed both clubs’ destinies forever.

Marquinhos’ 90th-minute equalizer, created by Neymar’s persistence and vision, provided PSG with a lifeline they barely deserved. The goal came from a fortuitous deflection off Mattia Caldara, but PSG’s relentless pressure had finally found reward when it mattered most.

Just 149 seconds later, the comeback was complete. Neymar’s through ball released Kylian Mbappé down the left flank, and the French star’s low cross found substitute Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting for a simple tap-in that sent the former Stoke City striker into Champions League immortality.

The victory represented PSG’s first Champions League semi-final appearance since 1995 and began their journey to eventual European glory. For Atalanta, it marked the cruelest of exits from their breakthrough campaign, with the club coming from Bergamo – one of the areas worst affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

That match established several psychological elements that could influence Wednesday’s encounter. PSG demonstrated their never-say-die mentality and ability to find late goals when the pressure mounts, while Atalanta learned the harsh lesson that European football rarely offers second chances against elite opposition.

The dramatic nature of their previous meeting adds extra motivation for both sides – PSG seeking to prove that victory was no fluke, while Atalanta hunger for revenge against the team that denied them their greatest moment.

PSG vs Atalanta: Team News and Predicted Lineup

PSG – Team News

Luis Enrique faces the most challenging team selection of his PSG tenure, with an unprecedented injury crisis forcing significant tactical adjustments for the Champions League opener. The international break proved catastrophic for the defending champions, claiming two of their most important attacking players.

Ousmane Dembélé’s absence represents the most significant blow to PSG’s title defense hopes. The French winger suffered a severe right hamstring injury during France’s World Cup qualifier against Ukraine and faces an estimated six-week recovery period. His injury has sparked controversy, with PSG publicly criticizing the French Football Federation for ignoring medical recommendations about the player’s workload.

Désiré Doué joins Dembélé on the treatment table with a right calf strain that will sideline him for approximately four weeks. The young forward’s versatility and pace would have provided valuable tactical options for Enrique, particularly in the high-intensity pressing system that defines PSG’s approach.

Fresh injury concerns emerged during PSG’s 2-0 victory over Lens, with three players forced off during the encounter. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s calf injury initially caused alarm, but subsequent medical assessments suggest no serious damage. The Georgian winger’s participation remains uncertain, with Enrique stating that his condition will be evaluated after training.

Lucas Beraldo continues his rehabilitation from a left ankle sprain suffered against Lens and remains the only player still receiving treatment from that weekend’s casualties. Lee Kang-in has recovered from his ankle issue and is available for selection, providing Enrique with welcome depth in midfield areas.

The injury crisis has opened opportunities for fringe players to stake their claim. Ibrahim Mbaye, the 17-year-old prospect who replaced Kvaratskhelia against Lens, could make his Champions League debut if called upon. The youngster represents the type of academy product PSG hope will complement their star signings.

Bradley Barcola’s recent form makes him an automatic selection, with the French winger’s pace and directness providing the width PSG desperately need in Dembélé’s absence. His brace against Lens demonstrated his ability to step up when the team needs him most.

PSG – Predicted XI (4-3-3)

• Goalkeeper: Donnarumma
• Defenders: Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes
• Midfielders: Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz
• Forwards: Barcola, Ramos, Mbaye

Atalanta – Team News

Ivan Juric confronts his own selection dilemmas ahead of his Champions League managerial debut, with several key players unavailable for this crucial encounter. The Croatian coach’s firm stance on discipline has significantly weakened his attacking options for the trip to Paris.

Ademola Lookman remains the most high-profile absentee, with his exile continuing following his failed summer transfer attempt. The Nigerian forward, who scored 20 goals across all competitions last season, has not featured for Atalanta this campaign and appears no closer to an Atalanta return. Juric has made clear that an apology for the player’s behavior is required before any reintegration can occur.

Gianluca Scamacca’s absence through knee inflammation represents another significant attacking loss. The Italian striker has been undergoing daily treatment to reduce swelling but has yet to return to full training. His powerful presence and aerial ability would have been valuable assets against PSG’s defense.

Sead Kolasinac faces a lengthy absence with a cruciate ligament injury, while Éderson remains sidelined with a muscle problem. These defensive and midfield absences limit Juric’s tactical flexibility and force him to rely on less experienced alternatives.

Mitchell Bakker, ironically facing his former club, will not feature due to a cruciate ligament tear suffered during the summer. The Dutch defender was not even included in Atalanta’s Champions League squad due to his long-term injury status.

However, Juric can count on the creativity of Charles De Ketelaere, who has embraced his role as the team’s primary playmaker. The Belgian recorded nine goal involvements in 10 Champions League appearances last season and will be central to Atalanta’s attacking hopes.

Giorgio Scalvini’s return from injury provides defensive leadership, while Marco Carnesecchi’s shot-stopping ability will be crucial against PSG’s potent attack. The Italian goalkeeper faces his biggest test since establishing himself as Atalanta’s number one.

Atalanta – Predicted XI (3-4-2-1)

• Goalkeeper: Carnesecchi
• Defenders: Djimsiti, Hien, Scalvini
• Midfielders: De Roon, Pasalic, Bellanova, Zalewski
• Forwards: Krstovic, De Ketelaere, Sulemana

PSG vs Atalanta: Prediction

This encounter presents a fascinating tactical battle between PSG’s star-studded squad depth and Atalanta’s collective organization, with the defending champions heavily favored despite their injury concerns. The psychological dynamics of their previous meeting add an intriguing subplot to proceedings.

PSG’s perfect Ligue 1 start demonstrates their ability to maintain high standards even with key players absent. Bradley Barcola’s emergence as a reliable goal threat provides Luis Enrique with a viable alternative to his injured stars, while the creative partnership of Vitinha and Fabián Ruiz should provide sufficient ammunition for the forward line.

The home advantage at Parc des Princes cannot be understated, particularly in Champions League fixtures where the Parisian crowd creates an intimidating atmosphere. PSG’s players will draw inspiration from their historic triumph on this stage, with the memory of their first European crown still fresh.

However, Atalanta’s European experience under pressure should not be underestimated. Despite their inconsistent Serie A form, La Dea possess the tactical discipline and work ethic to frustrate superior opponents, as they demonstrated so effectively in their previous encounter until the final minutes.

Ivan Juric’s defensive organization will be crucial in containing PSG’s remaining attacking threats. The absence of Lookman significantly reduces Atalanta’s pace on the counter-attack, but De Ketelaere’s creativity and work rate could exploit spaces behind PSG’s advanced full-backs.

The key battle may well be PSG’s ability to break down Atalanta’s compact defensive structure without their primary creative outlets. Vitinha’s vision and passing range will be tested against Atalanta’s disciplined pressing, while the Italian side’s set-piece threat could provide their best route to goal.

PSG’s squad depth and individual quality should ultimately prove decisive, particularly if they can establish an early lead to force Atalanta out of their defensive shell. The defending champions’ experience in high-pressure situations gives them a crucial psychological advantage.

Prediction: PSG 2–0 Atalanta

When and Where to Watch PSG vs Atalanta in India? Broadcast and Streaming Details

Indian football fans can catch the PSG vs Atalanta Champions League clash live on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 1:30 AM IST (Thursday) at the Parc des Princes in Paris. The match will be telecast on multiple Sony Sports Network channels including Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 1 HD, Sony Ten 2, Sony Ten 2 HD, Sony Ten 3, Sony Ten 3 HD, Sony Ten 5, and Sony Ten 5 HD.

For digital streaming, Sony LIV will provide live coverage of the fixture, though viewers will need a premium subscription to access the content. Additionally, JioTV users can stream the match through their platform, as they hold non-exclusive streaming rights for UEFA Champions League matches in India from 2024-25 to 2026-27, serving as a premium content partner of Sony Sports Network.

This heavyweight clash between the defending champions and the ambitious Italian side promises to be an intriguing tactical battle, making it essential viewing for Indian football enthusiasts who can enjoy comprehensive coverage across Sony’s multi-platform approach. The match marks PSG’s first step in their quest to become only the ninth club in Champions League history to successfully defend their title.

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