Victor Zapata looking forward to facing 'very strong' United
Atalanta forward Duvan Zapata was a substitute in the 3-2 clash at Old Trafford.
There is a good chance the Colombian will start tonight’s match, having started 10 of 12 matches this season for Atalanta.
Zapata will be a real threat, having scored eight goals in those appearances.
The striker is up for the battle against United, and is expecting a difficult game ahead after seeing how the Red Devils battled back to win last time.
RONALDO NEEDS TO STOP WHINING.
Zapata is full of admiration for United, but not intimidated. He told TMW he is looking forward to the game.
He said: “Tomorrow is an important match, we are ready and aware of the importance of the match. Our opponents are very strong . It is a great opportunity for us, we can achieve a result and win this match.
“We met Real Madrid, Liverpool, City and United this year. They are good games to play and any player wants to play these matches. We want to make a great performance.”
Zapata, 30, added to TMW that he expects United to be confident after the weekend win over Tottenham, but says irrespective of that, his side must step up.
He added: “I expect a tough match, like all those in these competitions. They just won in the league, the intensity will be high, we will have to be good at exploiting our talents, we must try to win this one, a home game.”
Like United, Atalanta not in great form
Both teams come into the game in the midst of an unsettled run of form.
Atalanta have had to deal with a series of defensive injuries and have won just two of their last five Serie A games.
The most recent was a spirited 2-2 draw with Lazio, and one thing you always get with Atalanta is goals.
Keeping Zapata out won’t be easy, and then there are the likes of Luis Muriel, Josip Ilicic, and Mario Pasalic to deal with.
Atalanta need to win this one, and a draw would probably suit United a little better, although both sides will be left with plenty more to do over the final two matches to follow.
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