MILAN: Atalanta continued their push for Champions League qualification with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Monza, building on their recent triumph over Liverpool in Europe.
Goals from Charles De Ketelaere and El Bilal Toure secured the win, bringing Atalanta within one point of fifth-placed Roma. Securing a top-five finish in Serie A guarantees entry into next season’s Champions League, a testament to Italian clubs’ strong continental performances.
Despite making several changes from their Liverpool clash, Atalanta displayed confidence at the U-Power Stadium. Toure, the record signing for Atalanta, made a significant impact, scoring his second goal of the season in his first start since joining the club.
However, Monza nearly salvaged a point with a late goal from Daniele Maldini. Meanwhile, Lecce boosted their chances of avoiding relegation with a resounding 3-0 win against Sassuolo, positioning themselves seven points clear of the relegation zone. Inter Milan will vie for their 20th Serie A title in a highly-anticipated derby against AC Milan on Monday night.
