Atalanta Hold Off Chelsea Scare To Win At Home

 

Atalanta came from behind to secure an important victory in the Champions  League, beating Chelsea 2-1 at Gewiss Stadium, and they moved up to third in the league phase. 

Unlike their previous game against Barcelona, Chelsea were not impressive, and their Italian hosts turned the game around, despite reeling. The goal that was Joao Pedro's first in the Champions League, which Chelsea should have sailed through, eventually proved futile. Enzo Maresca made adjustments to the team, but a comeback that eluded the side.

Reece James inspired the opening goal, following a corner in the 25th minute. He did a one-two pass with Neto before his cross was tapped in by Pedro from close range. It was the striker's first Champions League goal. 

Atalanta leveled the terms moments after Ademola Lookman's goal was ruled out for offside in the second half. The Italians moved into space inside the Blues' box, and Charles De Ketelaere's cross found Scamacca for the header that beat Sanchez to the net. In the closing minutes, Keletaere, with an individual effort, darted into the box and smashed home the second goal. 

It was a disappointing loss for Chelsea, who had been winless in three consecutive matches in the domestic league and their second defeat since their impressive outing against Barcelona. Keletaere has now scored in two successive Champions League games 

Overview 

It was an uninteresting second half for Chelsea after the previous half paid off. Ademola Lookman remained an important figure for Atalanta, even though the winning goal came through the centre. He had earlier made an attempt that was blocked in front of the goal and also had a goal ruled out.. 

Atalanta dictated most of the second half; neither could replacing Enzo Fernandez with Mateo Gusto nor Pedro Neto with Alejandro Garnacho make a difference. The Italian side were fired up and that paid off with the victory.