Atalanta Stun Milan 3-2 Despite Late Drama at San Siro
Visitors survive penalty and late surge to claim crucial away victory
Atalanta pulled off a stunning 3-2 victory at the San Siro on Sunday evening, surviving a dramatic late surge from AC Milan to claim three crucial points in their fight for European qualification. The visitors looked comfortable at 3-0 up before Milan's desperate finale made for heart-stopping viewing.
La Dea got off to the perfect start when Ederson opened the scoring in the seventh minute, capitalizing on Milan's sluggish opening. The Brazilian midfielder's early strike set the tone for what would become a masterclass in counter-attacking football from Gian Piero Gasperini's side.
Davide Zappacosta doubled the advantage in the 29th minute with a well-taken finish that left Mike Maignan with no chance. The left-back's goal came against the run of play as Milan dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances despite controlling 58% of the ball.
Just six minutes into the second half, Giacomo Raspadori put the game seemingly beyond doubt with Atalanta's third goal. At 3-0 up, the visitors looked to have the points wrapped up, but Milan had other ideas.
The hosts' fightback began in the 88th minute when Strahinja Pavlovic powered home to give the home crowd hope. The Serbian defender's goal sparked scenes of celebration in the stands as Milan sensed an unlikely comeback was possible.
Drama reached fever pitch in the 90th minute when Milan were awarded a penalty, converted by Christopher Nkunku to make it 3-2. The final moments saw yellow cards flying as both teams felt the pressure, with tackles flying in from all angles.
Tactically, this game showcased two contrasting approaches. Milan's possession-heavy style saw them register 20 shots to Atalanta's nine, but Marco Carnesecchi was in inspired form with eight saves. The visitors' clinical finishing proved the difference, converting three of their five shots on target.
Mario Pasalic orchestrated Atalanta's midfield with typical efficiency, while Ederson's early goal set the platform for victory. For Milan, missing key players like Luka Modric and Christian Pulisic showed, despite Pavlovic's late heroics.
This result sees Atalanta move to within 12 points of third-placed Milan, keeping their European hopes very much alive. For Milan, it's a setback in their quest to secure Champions League football, though their third-place position remains intact with just two games remaining.