Atalanta dominates first half, Zapata misses penalty on return to Serie A
Atalanta produced a dominant first-half performance to secure a convincing 3-0 victory over Torino at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino. A brace from Montenegrin striker Nikola Krstovic and a goal from Sulemana sealed the three points, as Gian Piero Gasperini’s men bounced back in style after their midweek disappointment in Europe.
The opening minutes were tough for Atalanta as they lost both Zalewski and Hien to early injuries. However, the visitors showed resilience and took complete control of the match between the 30th and 38th minutes.
Krstovic opened the scoring with a precise strike that went in off the inside of the post. Just four minutes later, Sulemana doubled the advantage with a low shot after Samardzic had rattled the woodwork moments earlier. The first-half rout was completed when Krstovic tapped home his second of the night following an excellent assist from the lively Sulemana.
The second half was largely a formality, with Atalanta comfortably managing their lead in a stadium marked by Torino fans’ protests and a subdued atmosphere.
The main highlight after the break came in the 73rd minute when Duván Zapata, making his first Serie A appearance in almost a year after a serious injury, won and then missed a penalty, denied by Atalanta goalkeeper Carnesecchi. In the closing stages, Lookman made his return to action, giving Gasperini another attacking option moving forward.
The victory lifts Atalanta up the table, while Torino faces mounting pressure after a poor start to the season and growing frustration among their supporters.
Match Report
Scorers: 30’ Krstovic, 34’ Sulemana, 38’ Krstovic
Torino (3-4-2-1): Israel; Ismajli, Coco, Maripan (Tameze 46’); Lazaro, Asllani, Ilic (Casadei 46’), Biraghi; Vlasic (Anjorin 81’), Aboukhlal (Adams 46’); Simeone (Zapata 69’).
Subs not used: –
Coach: Baroni
Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Kossounou, Hien (Ahanor 28’), Djimsiti; Zappacosta, De Roon (Musah 87’), Pasalic, Zalewski (Bellanova 10’); Samardzic, Sulemana (Lookman 87’); Krstovic (Maldini 87’).
Subs not used: –
Coach: Juric
Referee: Colombo
Notes: In the 73rd minute, Carnesecchi saved a penalty taken by Zapata (Torino).
