Paris Saint-Germain face Atalanta at the Parc des Princes on 17 September 2025 as PSG begin their defence of the Champions League trophy.
Prediction Overview
The suggested scoreline is PSG 2-0 victory. With PSG in excellent domestic form but hampered by several injury absences, this result seems plausible: a clean sheet and a win by a moderate margin. Although Atalanta can be dangerous, PSG’s attacking depth and home advantage make a shut-out and a two-goal win valuable possibilities.
PSG’s Perfect Domestic Rhythm, But Injury Worries
PSG have won all their Ligue 1 matches so far this season - four straight victories - and most recently beat Lens 2-0 at home. However, they are entering their Champions League return with concerns: key players Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué are confirmed out for several weeks with muscle injuries. In addition, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Kang-in Lee and Lucas Beraldo suffered knocks in the Lens match, and their availability for the Atalanta clash is uncertain. These absences weaken the forward options and may limit how many goals PSG can score against a disciplined opponent. On defence, PSG have kept recent clean sheets and shown they can control matches - especially at home - and will be counting on that against an Atalanta side likely to test them.
Atalanta’s Transition & Away Challenges Under New Management
Atalanta are under new management with Ivan Juric replacing long-time coach Gian Piero Gasperini. While Juric has Serie A experience, his recent record (including his time at Southampton) shows that building defensive solidity may take time. Atalanta’s early season in their domestic league has seen draws followed by a convincing home win vs Lecce (4-1), suggesting attacking potential is intact. However, their away form is less proven, particularly against top continental opposition. The pressure of the Champions League opener at PSG, plus PSG’s home strength, mean Atalanta may struggle to both prevent goals and score themselves in this game.
Historical & Tactical Angle Favour PSG Edge
PSG, as reigning champions, tend to start their Champions League campaigns strongly at home, using their squad depth and attacking talent to press opponents early. Even in matches where they are less than fully fit, their ability to control possession and force errors helps. Atalanta, under Juric, are likely to attempt counters and set-pieces, but with PSG missing attacking personnel, the match may not open up massively. Given PSG’s recent clean sheets and Atalanta’s mixed away defensive record, a 2-0 win for the hosts is a realistic outcome - PSG win with a moderate margin without conceding.
Prediction: PSG to win 2-0 - clean sheet with two goals scored at home seems both realistic and good value.
