Relive the excitement of Atalanta’s five-star display as they decisively defeat Sturm Graz, demonstrating their skill and determination in a captivating match.
Introduction:
Atalanta delivered a scintillating performance to thrash Sturm Graz 5-0 in the UEFA Europa League. The Bergamo-based side put on an attacking masterclass at home, with goals from Mateo Retegui, Mario Pašalić, Charles De Ketelaere, Ademola Lookman, and Marco Brescianini. Gian Piero Gasperini’s tactical adjustments and the squad’s depth proved decisive in this one-sided affair. Here’s how the action unfolded.

First Half: Retegui Breaks the Deadlock
The match kicked off with both teams eager to establish early dominance. Atalanta created the first real chance when Zappacosta sent a well-timed cross to the far post, where Hien rose highest but directed his close-range header wide. Sturm Graz responded soon after, with Camara showing excellent technique to chest down an aerial pass, weave past Kolašinac, and create space in the penalty box. However, his shot drifted narrowly wide, letting Atalanta off the hook.
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The breakthrough came in the 28th minute. A swift and incisive passage of play saw Zappacosta make a surging run down the left before rolling a pinpoint pass into the box. Mateo Retegui, as sharp as ever, applied the finishing touch from close range to put the hosts ahead. It was a clinical strike that marked his 17th goal of the season—further cementing his position as Atalanta’s top scorer across all competitions.
Sturm Graz had been competitive in patches, but Atalanta largely dominated the opening period. The hosts recorded eight of the nine attempts between the teams, with Retegui going close again near the end of the half. Samardžić’s corner found the forward at the far post, but his header flashed just wide. Despite some early Sturm promise, Atalanta went into the break deservedly leading 1-0.

Second Half: Gasperini’s Substitutions Shift the Momentum
The second half began with Atalanta showing even more attacking intent. Within minutes of the restart, Kolašinac cut inside from the left and unleashed a curling shot toward the far post. Sturm Graz goalkeeper Scherpen made an acrobatic save to deny him, but the warning signs were clear—Atalanta were hunting for a second.

Gasperini’s tactical adjustments at halftime made an immediate impact. Substitutes Juan Cuadrado and Ademola Lookman added dynamism to the team, and it didn’t take long for their influence to be felt. In the 55th minute, Cuadrado displayed his trademark skill, carving out space on the right before delivering a perfect low cross into the box. Mario Pašalić, arriving at the right time, volleyed the ball into the net to double Atalanta’s lead. The precision and fluidity of the move showcased the hosts’ attacking flair.

Atalanta Turn Up the Heat
With the momentum fully on their side, Atalanta continued pushing forward. Only ten minutes had passed since Pašalić’s goal when Charles De Ketelaere jumped on a ball inside the penalty area and found himself with a third of the match. The Belgian attacker had good instincts to react faster than the Sturm defenders and stab the ball from close range. The goal showed the dominance of Atalanta in the game and confirmed De Ketelaere among the team’s key contributors this season.
Sturm Graz struggled to regain a foothold in the match. Although they had their moments earlier in the game, the visitors were increasingly pinned back as Atalanta dictated the tempo. Even Djimsiti, a defender known for his aerial prowess, ventured forward and nearly added his name to the scoresheet with a towering header. The gulf in class between the two sides was becoming more apparent with every passing minute.

Lookman and Brescianini Seal the Rout
Ademola Lookman, who had been a constant menace since his introduction, was next to leave his mark. In the 75th minute, Cuadrado’s deft back-heel found De Ketelaere inside the box. The Belgian forward sent an inviting cross to the far post, where Lookman was unmarked and waiting. With a perfectly timed header, he added Atalanta’s fourth goal, much to the delight of the home fans.

The final goal of the night came just five minutes later, and it was another moment of brilliance from Lookman. His electric pace and skill saw him slice through the Sturm defense, drawing defenders out of position before setting up Marco Brescianini. The young substitute kept his composure, slotting the ball into the bottom corner to make it 5-0. It was a goal that epitomized Atalanta’s attacking depth and creativity, capping off an emphatic performance.
Key Performers
Mateo Retegui: The forward’s opener was crucial in setting the tone for Atalanta. With 17 goals this season, he continues to be a reliable source of firepower for Gasperini’s side.
Ademola Lookman: A game-changing second-half display. Lookman scored one goal, assisted another, and tormented the Sturm defense with his pace and movement.
Juan Cuadrado: The experienced winger provided two assists, showcasing his ability to influence the game from the flanks.
Charles De Ketelaere: His goal and assist underline his importance in Atalanta’s attacking setup.

What This Means for Atalanta
This commanding victory solidifies Atalanta’s position in the Europa League group stage, leaving little doubt about their ability to compete at this level. Gasperini’s tactical flexibility and the depth of his squad were key factors in this triumph. With players like Retegui, Lookman, and De Ketelaere firing on all cylinders, Atalanta look poised to make a deep run in the competition.
For Sturm Graz, the defeat ends their hopes of maintaining momentum in Europe. While they showed glimpses of promise, their inability to capitalize on key moments proved costly. The visitors were simply outclassed by an Atalanta side operating at full throttle.