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Atalanta took a significant step towards securing a top-eight spot in the Champions League with a resounding 5-0 victory over Sturm Graz on Tuesday evening. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side exhibited their relentless attacking prowess, with Mateo Retegui, Mario Pasalic, Charles De Ketelaere, Ademola Lookman, and Marco Brescianini all finding the back of the net.
Retegui opened the scoring in the early stages, capitalizing on a defensive mishap by the visitors. The striker tapped in from close range after a precise pass from Davide Zappacosta, setting the tone for the game. Pasalic doubled the advantage in the 58th minute with a deflected goal, before De Ketelaere bundled the ball home to make it 3-0 just five minutes later.
Lookman sealed the win with the first of two late stoppage time goals, as he slotted home after being set up by De Ketelaere in the 90th minute. The second was a header from a Cuadrado back-heel, which was followed by a solo run that resulted in a goal for Marco Brescianini in stoppage time.
The comprehensive victory propelled Atalanta to third spot in the group with 14 points, guaranteeing them at least a play-off place in the Champions League. Sturm Graz, on the other hand, were eliminated from contention, sitting 31st with just three points.
Atalanta’s attacking depth was on full display, with key players making significant contributions throughout the match. Juan Cuadrado provided crucial assists, while Lookman’s clinical finishing sealed the win. The team’s tactical flexibility and resilience were also evident, despite injuries to key players like Odilon Kossouno, Nicolò Zaniolo, and Gianluca Scamacca.
The victory marks a significant turnaround for Atalanta, who had a challenging start to 2025. With their final group stage fixture against Barcelona looming, the team will be looking to build on this momentum and secure a favorable position in the Champions League knockout phase.
