Atalanta continued their impressive run in Serie A, achieving a remarkable ninth consecutive victory as they defeated AC Milan 2-1 at Gewiss Stadium. The match showcased goals from Charles De Ketelaere and Ademola Lookman, leading to a disappointing outing for the Rossoneri.
With the pressure on to set a new club record for consecutive wins, Atalanta made some strategic decisions, including resting Mateo Retegui ahead of their upcoming Champions League clash with Real Madrid. This opened the door for De Ketelaere to start against his former club, while injuries sidelined key players like Juan Cuadrado, Davide Zappacosta, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Milan came into the match with confidence after a resounding 6-1 victory over Sassuolo in the Coppa Italia, but they were still missing important players such as Luka Jovic and Ismael Bennacer. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini was unable to lead the team from the touchline due to a suspension, leaving Tullio Gritti to manage the squad.
The match kicked off with Milan creating an early opportunity when Christian Pulisic tested Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi within the first 15 seconds. Shortly after, Ederson made a strong run but Mario Pasalic failed to convert from close range.
Atalanta took the lead in the 12th minute when De Ketelaere outjumped Theo Hernandez at the back post to head in Marten de Roon’s free kick. Milan protested, claiming that De Ketelaere had pushed Hernandez during the play.
Milan equalized ten minutes later as Rafael Leao capitalized on a through ball from Theo Hernandez. Leao sprinted down the left flank and delivered a cross that allowed Alvaro Morata to tap in from close range.
The first half saw more drama as Atalanta lost Pulisic to a calf injury just before halftime. Despite this setback, Atalanta maintained pressure, with De Ketelaere setting up several chances that were thwarted by Milan’s defense.
In the second half, Lazar Samardzic came off the bench and quickly made an impact by assisting Lookman on a counterattack. Lookman’s shot was saved by Milan’s Mike Maignan, but he scored shortly after from a corner kick when he found himself unmarked at the back post.
Atalanta nearly extended their lead in stoppage time when Maignan denied Mateo Retegui in a one-on-one situation.
Goals: De Ketelaere 12 (A), Morata 22 (M), Lookman 87 (A)
Atalanta (3-4-1-2): Carnesecchi; Djimsiti (76′ Kossounou), Hien, Kolasinac; Bellanova, Ederson, De Roon, Ruggeri (90+2′ Scalvini); Pasalic (76′ Samardzic); De Ketelaere (76′ Retegui), Lookman (90′ Brescianini)
Milan (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Emerson Royal, Gabbia, Thiaw, Theo Hernandez; Fofana, Reijnders; Musah (90′ Chukwueze), Pulisic (38′ Loftus-Cheek), Leao; Morata (78′ Abraham).
