Atalanta experienced an unexpected defeat against relegation-threatened Cagliari, with Gianluca Scamacca’s initial goal being nullified by subsequent strikes from Tommaso Augello and Nicolas Viola. This setback for Atalanta occurred amidst a series of mixed outcomes, notably a resounding 3-0 victory over Napoli in the Serie A followed by a 1-0 loss to Fiorentina in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final. The absence of Giorgio Scalvini due to injury for a month compounded their challenges, although the return of Charles De Ketelaere to the bench after recovering from an injury was a positive development ahead of the Europa League quarter-final against Liverpool. Notably, Atalanta faced the absence of key players such as Leonardo Pavoletti, Andrea Petagna, and Marco Mancosu, as they endeavored to distance themselves from the relegation zone.
In the match, Ederson narrowly missed scoring from the edge of the penalty area before Atalanta took the lead through a meticulously executed play. Teun Koopmeiners initiated the attack by feeding Ademola Lookman on the left flank, whose precise delivery was met by Gianluca Scamacca’s adept finish, lifting the ball over the goalkeeper from close range.
Despite defensive efforts such as Berat Djimsiti’s block and questionable penalty appeals involving Yerry Mina and Gianluca Gaetano, Cagliari managed to level the score. Eldor Shomurodov’s dribble drew defenders towards him, allowing him to cleverly assist Tommaso Augello, whose finish from nine yards found the top corner.
Atalanta had opportunities to regain the lead, with Lookman coming close before halftime, and Alberto Dossena and El-Bilal Toure also squandering chances. However, disciplinary concerns arose as Marten de Roon and Davide Zappacosta received bookings, rendering them ineligible for subsequent matches due to suspension.
Cagliari continued to press as the game progressed, eventually seizing the lead through Nicolas Viola’s rare header from Zito Luvumbo’s cross. This victory was crucial for Claudio Ranieri’s side, propelling them four points clear of the relegation zone.
Cagliari 2-1 Atalanta