Atalanta delivered a commanding performance against relegation-threatened Empoli, securing a resounding 5-0 victory at the Stadio Carlo Castellani. Ademola Lookman responded in style to recent criticism from his manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, by scoring a brilliant brace, helping his side close the gap on Serie A leaders Inter.
Atalanta Close the Gap on Serie A Leaders
With 12 matches left in the season, Atalanta’s dominant win moves them to 54 points, just three behind Inter and two behind Napoli. A month ago, the Serie A title race seemed destined to be a battle between Inter and Napoli, but Atalanta’s strong form has added a new contender to the mix.
This emphatic victory comes just days after Atalanta’s disappointing Champions League exit against Club Brugge, providing the perfect response to that setback.
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Early Own Goal Sets the Tone for Atalanta’s Dominance
Empoli, currently battling to avoid relegation, made a promising start but quickly fell apart under Atalanta’s pressure. The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when a Davide Zappacosta cross from the edge of the box deflected off Emmanuel Gyasi and looped into the net for an unfortunate own goal.
Just six minutes later, Atalanta doubled their lead. Mateo Retegui, who has been in sensational goal-scoring form, continued his run with a well-placed finish past Marco Silvestri. His strike extended his incredible record of scoring in consecutive away matches.
Lookman Answers Gasperini’s Criticism with Stunning Brace
Atalanta’s third goal came in the 43rd minute when Ademola Lookman latched onto a brilliant through ball, rounded the Empoli goalkeeper, and slotted the ball into an empty net. It was the perfect way for Lookman to silence the doubters after Gasperini had recently criticized his penalty-taking ability following his miss against Club Brugge.
MVP smile ⭐️ #EmpoliAtalanta #GoAtalantaGo ⚫️ pic.twitter.com/k77jJJZwxB
— Atalanta B.C. (@Atalanta_BC) February 23, 2025
The Nigerian forward wasn’t done yet. Just after halftime, Lookman struck again, showcasing his pace and composure. Marten de Roon played an exquisite through ball that evaded the Empoli defense, allowing Lookman to glide into the box and fire an angled shot past Silvestri.
Zappacosta Caps Off the Rout
With Empoli reeling, Atalanta continued to push forward. In the 74th minute, Zappacosta, who had earlier forced the own goal, completed the scoring with a superb effort, sealing a 5-0 victory.
Empoli’s Relegation Battle Gets Tougher
This heavy defeat leaves Empoli in 18th place with 21 points, two points away from safety. Their defensive frailties were once again exposed, and their inability to contain Atalanta’s attacking firepower could prove costly in their fight for Serie A survival.
Key Statistics: Retegui’s Scoring Streak and Atalanta’s Dominance
- Mateo Retegui has now scored seven goals in his last three away matches, with braces against Como and Verona.
- Only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (16 goals) has scored more away goals in league play across Europe’s top five leagues than Retegui’s 13 goals this season.
- Atalanta secured their sixth consecutive Serie A victory over Empoli, the longest active losing streak Empoli has against any opponent.
- Despite the 5-0 scoreline, Atalanta’s expected goals (xG) were 2.42 compared to Empoli’s 1.06, highlighting the visitors’ clinical finishing.
Atalanta’s Title Ambitions Get a Boost
With Inter and Napoli dropping points in recent weeks, Atalanta’s win adds new intrigue to the Serie A title race. Gasperini’s men have been in outstanding form, and with Lookman, Retegui, and Zappacosta firing, they could mount a serious challenge for the Scudetto.
The coming weeks will be crucial as Atalanta faces key fixtures that could define their season. If they continue to deliver performances like this, the title race could go down to the wire.
