Atalanta 5-0 Stum Graz: La Dea defeat visitors in convincing fashion

Europa League champions Atalanta showcased their European prowess with a commanding 5-0 victory against Austrian side Sturm Graz in Tuesday's Champions League match, strengthening their position for a coveted quarter-final spot.

The Italian powerhouse delivered a masterclass at their home ground, with goals from Mateo Retegui, Mario Pasalic, Charles De Ketelaere, Ademola Lookman, and Marco Brescianini securing their first home triumph in this season's Champions League campaign. The win propelled Atalanta to third place with 14 points, while Sturm Graz, sitting at 31st with three points, saw their knockout stage hopes extinguished.

The scoring exhibition began in the 12th minute when Serie A's leading scorer Retegui capitalized on defensive confusion. A sequence involving De Ketelaere's cross, Lazar Samardzic's edge-of-box control, and Davide Zappacosta's assist led to Retegui's third Champions League goal of the season.

While Sturm Graz's Amady Camara had an early opportunity, Atalanta's dominance was overwhelming. The second half saw the floodgates open, with Pasalic converting Cuadrado's brilliant cross in the 58th minute. De Ketelaere added a third five minutes later, before turning provider for Lookman's 90th-minute header. Brescianini completed the rout in stoppage time, finishing a brilliant solo run from Lookman.

The victory comes at a crucial time for Gian Piero Gasperini's squad, who recently saw their 15-match unbeaten Serie A streak end against Napoli. Atalanta's Champions League journey continues with a final group stage fixture against Barcelona on January 29, while Sturm Graz will host Red Bull Leipzig.

SportsLigue