Atalanta edged out Roma in a 2-0 victory that saw them close the gap on league leaders Napoli. Despite a relatively quiet performance from their star forward, Ademola Lookman, Atalanta demonstrated their resilience and tactical flexibility to secure all three points.

Roma, desperate to turn their season around after a string of disappointing losses, came out of the gates with intensity. Leandro Paredes tested Atalanta’s keeper, Marco Carnesecchi, early on with a well-struck shot from distance. However, despite the early pressure, Roma’s initial surge fizzled out as the first half progressed. Both teams struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, with a long-range effort from Manu Kone that went narrowly wide being one of the few moments of excitement.

The second half began much like the first ended, with neither side able to establish a firm grip on the game. The match seemed destined for a stalemate as the hour mark approached without a single shot on target. However, the deadlock was finally broken when Marten de Roon unleashed a powerful strike from outside the penalty area. The shot took a decisive deflection, wrong-footing Roma’s goalkeeper Mile Svilar and giving Atalanta the lead.

This goal proved to be a turning point. Roma, already struggling for form, seemed to deflate after going behind. Their woes were compounded when Atalanta doubled their advantage, courtesy of a clinical counter-attack. Former Roma players Juan Cuadrado and Nicolo Zaniolo combined to devastating effect, with Cuadrado delivering a pinpoint cross for Zaniolo to head home.

This victory underscores Atalanta’s strength in depth and tactical adaptability. Even without Lookman firing on all cylinders, they were able to control the game for large periods and capitalize on their opportunities. De Roon’s contribution from midfield proved crucial, while the combination of Cuadrado and Zaniolo highlighted the team’s attacking prowess.

For Roma, this defeat is another setback in what has been a difficult season. Their inability to maintain early pressure and their vulnerability on the counter-attack will be a cause for concern for manager Jose Mourinho. With the gap between them and the top of the table widening, Roma will need to find a solution to their inconsistency quickly if they hope to salvage their season.