Atalanta 3-2 Fiorentina: Lookman stars as hosts win five-goal thriller

Ademola Lookman, a nominee for the Ballon d’Or, made a significant impact upon his return to the lineup as Atalanta overcame Fiorentina with a score of 3-2 at the Gewiss Stadium. This match marked Fiorentina's first defeat of the season following five consecutive draws.

Fiorentina took the lead in the 15th minute, having started the match with greater intensity. Roberto Mandragora delivered a well-placed cross from a corner, which was initially saved by Marco Carnesecchi after a strong effort from Robin Gosens, but Lucas Martinez Quarta capitalized on the rebound to score.

The first half was characterized by a flurry of goals, with both teams exchanging the lead. Lookman produced a remarkable equalizer, skillfully maneuvering past Edoardo Bove before delivering a cross to Mateo Retegui, who headed the ball past David de Gea, marking his fourth goal in as many matches for Atalanta.

However, the visitors quickly regained the lead through Moise Kean, who scored from close range after connecting with a header from Gosens, marking his second Serie A goal of the season. Despite having not scored in the previous league campaign, Kean was left frustrated after hitting the post shortly thereafter, as Atalanta dramatically turned the tide just before halftime.

Ederson sent in a dangerous cross, allowing Charles De Ketelaere to score with a powerful header from close range. Just a minute later, a bewildered Fiorentina defense allowed Lookman to break free on the left flank, where he skillfully cut inside to find the net at De Gea’s near post.

The second half began with a quieter atmosphere, yet the few opportunities that arose were for the home side to increase their lead. Raoul Bellanova missed a chance to score after a defensive error, and Lookman narrowly missed the target following a well-coordinated play with Retegui.

Their supremacy persisted, and had it not been for a series of crucial saves by De Gea, who thwarted attempts from De Ketelaere, Davide Zappacosta, and Lookman, the Nerazzurri would have been far ahead in the match.

Lookman subsequently squandered a clear opportunity as he aimed to conclude what had been an impressive performance; however, this miss proved inconsequential as Fiorentina struggled to mount any significant offensive efforts after halftime and ultimately failed to secure a point.

In seeking retribution for a 3-2 defeat in this matchup at the conclusion of the previous season, Atalanta successfully regained momentum in their campaign following two successive losses, while the visitors experienced the end of a seven-match unbeaten streak in the league, despite having taken the lead on two occasions.