Atalanta showcased a dominant performance against Hellas Verona, securing a commanding 6-1 victory that allowed them to vent their frustrations following a disappointing draw with Celtic in the Champions League. This match also marked a significant milestone for coach Gian Piero Gasperini, celebrating his 400th game with the club.
The match began with Atalanta quickly asserting their dominance. Just six minutes in, Ademola Lookman made a pivotal run down the left flank, setting up Marten de Roon, who fired the ball into the net from inside the box. Shortly after, Lookman was involved again, this time deflecting a shot that fell to Mateo Retegui, who scored from a similar position.
Atalanta continued to press, and after a superb save from Verona’s goalkeeper Lorenzo Montipò on Lookman’s effort, Charles De Ketelaere curled in a stunning left-footed shot from just inside the area to extend the lead. Montipò was again tested when he managed to tip a header from Retegui over the bar, but he was powerless to stop Lookman as he dribbled into the area and finished clinically at the near post.
The hosts were clearly enjoying their football, with Lookman initiating the move that led to Atalanta’s fifth goal. After Ederson’s cross was slightly misplayed by De Ketelaere, Lookman was on hand to tap it in from close range.
Verona had few chances but managed to score a consolation goal through Amin Sarr, who found the net with a powerful half-volley after controlling the ball well. However, Atalanta responded quickly after halftime; Lookman’s back-heel set up another opportunity for de Roon, whose shot hit the crossbar.
Retegui completed his brace later in the match, finishing off a precise slide-rule pass from De Ketelaere to bring the score to 6-1. Dani Silva made an impact off the bench for Verona, testing Atalanta’s goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi with a long-range effort.
This emphatic win not only lifted Atalanta’s spirits after their midweek frustrations but also highlighted their attacking prowess as they continue their Serie A campaign.
Goals: 6′ De Roon (A), 9′, 58′ Retegui (A), 13′ De Ketelaere (A), 29′, 33′ Lookman (A), 42′ Sarr (V)
Atalanta (3-4-3): Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Zappacosta (56′ Bellanova), Ederson (56′ Pasalic), De Roon, Ruggeri; De Ketelaere, Retegui (62′ Zaniolo), Lookman (56′ Samardzic)
Verona (3-4-2-1): Montipò; Magnani, Coppola (46′ Daniliuc), Ghilardi; Tchatchoua; Serdar (67′ Suslov), Belahyane, Bradaric (46′ Dani Silva); Livramento, Kastanos (46′ Lazovic); Sar
