SSC Napoli suffered a damaging setback in the Serie A title race after a spirited comeback from Atalanta sealed a 2-1 victory, stretching La Dea’s unbeaten league run to nine matches with seven wins and two draws.
The early stages at the New Balance Arena were tense and controlled, with neither side willing to take unnecessary risks. However, the visitors eventually found the breakthrough in the 18th minute, taking full advantage of poor defensive organisation from the hosts. A well-delivered free kick from Miguel Gutiérrez picked out an unmarked Sam Beukema inside the penalty area. The defender made no mistake from close range, calmly converting from just over six yards to register his second Serie A goal of the season.
Atalanta responded with urgency and gradually began to impose themselves on the game. Their first real opportunity arrived after 35 minutes when Kamaldeen Sulemana tested the goalkeeper. Vanja Milinković-Savić reacted sharply at his near post to produce an excellent save and keep Napoli ahead.
The closing moments of the first half brought controversy and drama. Antonio Conte’s side were initially awarded a penalty after the referee judged Isak Hien to have fouled Rasmus Højlund. The atmosphere inside the stadium intensified before referee Daniele Chiffi overturned the decision following a VAR review, leaving the score unchanged at the interval.
Napoli thought they had doubled their advantage just 23 seconds into the second half when Gutiérrez found the net, but the celebrations were short-lived. The goal was disallowed after Højlund was penalised for a foul during the build-up. That moment proved decisive as the momentum gradually shifted.
The hosts found their equaliser shortly after the hour mark from a set piece. Nicola Zalewski delivered a precise corner that was met by a glancing header from Croatia international Mario Pašalić. His effort carried enough power to beat Milinković-Savić and ignite belief among the Atalanta players and supporters.
Confidence surged through Raffaele Palladino’s side as they pushed aggressively for a winner. Midway through the second half, Gianluca Scamacca came close, but Milinković-Savić once again delivered a crucial save to keep Napoli level.
The pressure eventually told in the closing stages. With less than 10 minutes remaining, Lazar Samardžić rose highest to meet an inviting cross from Lorenzo Bernasconi, directing a superb header into the bottom corner. The goal sparked wild celebrations and completed a memorable turnaround.
The result keeps Atalanta in seventh position in Serie A as they now turn their attention to a decisive UEFA Champions League encounter against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday, with a place in the Round of 16 on the line.
For Napoli, who remain third, the defeat dents their title hopes. Their focus now shifts to next weekend’s trip to Hellas Verona, where a response will be essential to revive their challenge at the top of the table.
