Napoli extended their lead at the top of Serie A to six points with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Atalanta in Bergamo. Romelu Lukaku’s late header sealed a thrilling encounter, keeping Napoli firmly in control of the title race.
Match Summary
Atalanta opened the scoring in the 16th minute through Mateo Retegui, who latched onto Ederson’s precise pass and rifled the ball past Alex Meret at the near post.
Napoli responded with two quick goals before halftime. Matteo Politano smashed the ball into the roof of the net after Atalanta failed to clear their lines. Minutes later, Scott McTominay finished off a well-worked move, converting Frank Anguissa’s cutback to put the visitors ahead.
Ademola Lookman leveled the score in the 55th minute, showcasing his skill by skipping past Matteo Ruggeri and firing a precise left-footed strike beyond Meret.
The decisive moment came in the 78th minute when Lukaku rose to meet Anguissa’s cross, glancing a brilliant header past Marco Carnesecchi to secure all three points for Napoli.
Key Stats and Records
- Napoli’s Away Form: The Partenopei have now won eight of their first 11 away games in Serie A this season, replicating their strong starts in 2017-18 and 2022-23.
- Conte’s Influence: Napoli have earned 50 points in 21 games under Antonio Conte, a tally bettered only three times in their history at this stage of the season.
- Lukaku’s Impact: The Belgian striker is the only player in Serie A this season with more than five goals and five assists (8 goals, 6 assists).
Tactical Analysis
Napoli’s Resilience
Despite the departure of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to PSG, Napoli demonstrated their ability to grind out results. Conte’s side adapted well, relying on a combination of disciplined defending and clinical finishing.
Anguissa’s Influence
Frank Anguissa was instrumental in midfield, providing the assist for both McTominay’s goal and Lukaku’s winner. His work rate and vision were pivotal in breaking down Atalanta’s defense.
Atalanta’s Missed Opportunities
Atalanta’s attack, led by Lookman and Retegui, created several chances, but defensive lapses and a lack of composure in the final third proved costly.
What’s Next?
Napoli’s victory puts them six points clear at the top, though Inter Milan have two games in hand. Conte’s side will look to maintain their momentum as they chase their first league title since 1990.
Atalanta, meanwhile, remain in the hunt for European qualification but must improve their defensive organization to challenge the league’s top sides.
Player of the Match
Romelu Lukaku (Napoli)
The Belgian striker delivered when it mattered most, scoring the decisive goal and continuing his excellent form with eight goals and six assists this season.
Napoli’s title charge is gathering steam, and with Lukaku leading the line, they look like a formidable force in Serie A.
