Atalanta 3-2 Empoli: De Ketelaere's late winner sees La Dea reclaim top spot

Atalanta BC established a new club milestone by achieving 11 consecutive victories in Serie A, as Charles De Ketelaere's remarkable solo goal clinched a thrilling 3-2 triumph over Empoli, allowing them to surpass SSC Napoli and ascend to the top of the table as Christmas approaches.

The visitors entered Bergamo with a commendable away record, despite struggling to maintain a position in the upper half of the Serie A standings. However, recent encounters had not favored them, as Atalanta had suffered only one defeat in their last 12 home matches against Empoli in the top flight.

Unexpectedly, the Azzurri Empolesi took the lead in the 13th minute when Lorenzo Colombo's left-footed strike found the net.

Gian Piero Gasperini, known for his demanding nature, would have been vigilant against any signs of complacency. After a sluggish start, Atalanta equalized in the 33rd minute.

A revitalized Davide Zappacosta delivered a precise cross, allowing the in-form De Ketelaere to slip behind the defense and expertly finish with a diving header past Devis Vásquez.

La Dea aspires to compete for four trophies, aiming to build on their memorable UEFA Europa League victory in Dublin. In the 42nd minute, Berat Djimsiti's header struck the post following another accurate delivery from Zappacosta.

By setting a new club record for consecutive Serie A wins, Atalanta achieved their perfect 10 last week and positioned themselves for an 11th victory during first-half stoppage time.

Nicolò Zaniolo directed De Ketelaere's cross towards Ademola Lookman, who, fresh from being named African Player of the Year, tapped in to conclude an outstanding week for the Nigerian.

Atalanta had secured maximum points in 12 of their 16 league matches this season; however, their aspirations for further success were hindered at the 57-minute mark when Sebastiano Esposito converted a penalty.

Djimsiti found himself entangled with Albert Grassi in the penalty area, and following a VAR review, Esposito confidently struck the penalty kick straight down the center.

As the match appeared to be heading towards a stalemate, a moment of brilliance occurred when De Ketelaere received the ball at the edge of the box in the 86th minute. He skillfully maneuvered past four defenders and delivered a precise shot into the corner, bringing the score to 3-2.

Gasperini's joy was palpable as his team's remarkable winning streak elevated them to the top of the standings, with these vital three points positioning them at the pinnacle of Serie A as Christmas approached.

For Empoli, that late goal resulted in their fall below AS Roma, placing them in the lower half of the table.

SportsLigue