Atalanta extended their remarkable Serie A winning streak to 10 matches with a narrow 1-0 triumph over Cagliari at the Unipol Domus Stadium. Nicolo Zaniolo’s decisive second-half goal helped Gian Piero Gasperini’s side maintain their dominance at the top of the table while deepening the relegation concerns for Davide Nicola’s Cagliari.
This historic run marks an unprecedented feat in Serie A’s 38-game era, showcasing Atalanta’s evolution into one of Italy’s most consistent and formidable teams.
A Tense and Goalless First Half
Despite sitting just above the relegation zone, Cagliari started strongly, showing no signs of intimidation against the league leaders. The Islanders managed to keep Atalanta’s usually potent attack at bay, restricting them to a single off-target effort in the opening 45 minutes.
Cagliari’s first major opportunity came within three minutes when Roberto Piccoli found space on the edge of the box but dragged his shot wide of Marco Carnesecchi’s goal. Atalanta’s best chance in the first half came from Marco Brescianini, whose pressured attempt trickled wide in the 20th minute.
The game heated up toward the end of the half when Cagliari’s Alessandro Deiola had a cross deflected, sparking appeals for a handball against Atalanta’s Ben Godfrey. Referee Luca Pairetto waved away the claims, leaving Cagliari frustrated but determined.
Cagliari nearly took the lead with a flurry of attempts late in the half. A rapid attack forced Carnesecchi into a heroic triple save, denying Nadir Zortea from point-blank range and keeping the game level heading into the break.
Atalanta Find the Breakthrough
Gasperini made bold changes at halftime, introducing fresh legs to breathe life into a lackluster attack. Despite their improved tempo, Atalanta initially struggled to break through Cagliari’s defensive lines, with Ederson firing over from Matteo Ruggeri’s low cross early in the second half.
Atalanta win their 10th Serie A game in a row
They haven’t lost since September
✅ v Cagliari
✅ v Milan
✅ v Roma
✅ v Parma
✅ v Udinese
✅ v Napoli
✅ v Monza
✅ v Verona
✅ v Venezia
✅ v GenoaThis is what teams who go on to fight for the Scudetto do ⏳ pic.twitter.com/lZszmlvHIJ
— Italian Football TV (@IFTVofficial) December 14, 2024
The breakthrough came in the 62nd minute, thanks to a well-orchestrated team move. Substitute Lazar Samardzic initiated the attack with a switch of play to Raoul Bellanova, who delivered a precise cross into the box. Zaniolo, just two minutes after coming on, timed his run perfectly to meet the ball unmarked and fired a low shot past Alen Sherri to break the deadlock.
The goal highlighted the impact of Gasperini’s substitutions and showcased Zaniolo’s ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Atalanta Push for More, but Cagliari Hold On
After taking the lead, they looked to extend their advantage. Ademola Lookman nearly doubled the score with a dazzling solo run, weaving through Cagliari’s defense before unleashing a shot that cannoned off the post.
Cagliari manager Davide Nicola responded with a series of substitutions, including the introduction of Leonardo Pavoletti, making his 200th appearance for the club. However, the hosts struggled to create meaningful chances against a well-organized Atalanta defense.
Despite late pressure from the Islanders, Atalanta held firm, ensuring their 21st consecutive meeting with Cagliari produced a decisive result.
Standout Performances
- Nicolo Zaniolo (Atalanta): The Galatasaray loanee made an instant impact, scoring the decisive goal within minutes of coming on. His composure and positioning were instrumental in breaking the deadlock.
- Marco Carnesecchi (Atalanta): The goalkeeper’s triple save in the first half kept his team in the game and highlighted his importance to Atalanta’s defensive stability.
- Raoul Bellanova (Atalanta): Provided the assist for Zaniolo’s goal with a pinpoint cross and was a constant threat down the right flank.
- Alen Sherri (Cagliari): Despite conceding, the Cagliari goalkeeper made several crucial saves to keep the scoreline respectable.
What This Means for Atalanta
With this victory, Atalanta move five points clear at the top of the Serie A table, solidifying their position as the team to beat. Their 10-game winning streak underscores their tactical discipline, depth, and attacking prowess, all hallmarks of a team capable of sustaining a title challenge.
Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini credited his squad’s resilience and adaptability after the match. “Cagliari made it very difficult for us, but our ability to stay focused and seize the moment proved decisive. This winning streak is a testament to the hard work and unity of the team,” he said.
Cagliari’s Relegation Woes Deepen
For Cagliari, this defeat further complicates their survival hopes. Hovering just two points above the relegation zone, the Islanders face a tough road ahead as they look to secure their Serie A status. Despite showing flashes of resilience, their lack of creativity and finishing in the final third remains a significant concern.
Manager Davide Nicola acknowledged the challenge, saying, “We fought hard against one of the best teams in the league, but small margins made the difference. We need to find consistency and capitalize on our chances.”
Key Match Statistics
- Shots: Atalanta 11, Cagliari 7
- Shots on Target: Atalanta 4, Cagliari 3
- Possession: Atalanta 54%, Cagliari 46%
- Corners: Atalanta 6, Cagliari 3
Looking Ahead
Atalanta will aim to continue their incredible form in their next fixture, with confidence running high as they chase their first Serie A title in over six decades. Gasperini’s men will need to maintain their focus as they face a packed fixture schedule in the coming weeks.
Atalanta open up a 5️⃣-point lead in Serie A ⚫️ pic.twitter.com/Ad3lWRK6Ch
— 433 (@433) December 14, 2024
Cagliari, meanwhile, must regroup quickly to avoid slipping into the relegation zone. With critical matches on the horizon, Nicola and his team will need to find solutions to their attacking struggles and defensive lapses.
READ NEXT:
