Monza 1-2 Atalanta: Atalanta complete memorable week with victory over hosts

Atalanta climbed into the Serie A top-six after securing a 2-1 victory against Lombardy-based Monza, extending the Biancorossi's winless streak to four games.

After their triumph over Liverpool in the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals earlier in the week, Atalanta traveled to Monza with the aim of reigniting their league campaign following two winless matches.

La Dea started strongly, coming close to scoring within the first 10 minutes when Sead Kolasinac embarked on a brilliant run from full-back. However, his shot was saved and fell to Ademola Lookman, who was unable to convert the rebound.

El Bilal Toure then squandered a golden opportunity after being found in the box by Emil Holm. Despite having time and space, the striker narrowly missed the target with his header.

Monza gradually grew into the game as they withstood Atalanta's pressure, but their attacks failed to create clear-cut chances. Their only shot on target in the first half was a long-range effort from Alessio Zerbin, which Marco Carnesecchi comfortably dealt with.

Just before half-time, the hosts fell behind as Charles De Ketelaere evaded his marker to score with a header from Lookman's corner, sending Atalanta into the lead.

Gian Piero Gasperini's team emerged with great energy in the second half, and Lookman, in particular, seemed to be in the right mindset. He had two chances to extend La Dea's lead within the first 15 minutes of the second half.

The first opportunity came after some skillful footwork on the left side, and his deflected shot almost found its way into the net at the near post. However, Michele Di Gregorio made a strong save to deny the Atalanta forward.

Raffaele Palladino's team struggled to assert themselves in the game, and their attacks were mostly ineffective.

Atalanta's relentless pursuit of a second goal finally paid off in the 72nd minute. Lookman and Bilal Toure combined well to set up the goal, which was expertly finished by the Malian player into the top corner, effectively sealing the victory.

With a two-goal advantage, La Dea seemed to be cruising towards victory in the final 15 minutes.

However, Monza unexpectedly pulled a goal back as Daniel Maldini surprised Carnesecchi with a long-range shot.

Despite this late goal, the hosts couldn't generate enough momentum to mount a comeback and secure a draw. Gasperini's team held on for the win, keeping Atalanta in the race for a UEFA Champions League spot, as the Italian league secured a fifth place in next season's competition. Meanwhile, Monza remains stuck in mid-table after failing to win any of their last four matches.