A Thrilling 5-0 Victory! The Dark Horse Rises in the Champions League
In the early hours of January 22nd, Beijing time, a match in the seventh round of the Champions League saw Atalanta secure an impressive 5-0 victory over Graz Storm at home. This win has propelled them to 14 points, catapulting them from 13th place to 3rd on the leaderboard, temporarily surpassing teams like Arsenal and Inter Milan, with a promising chance to reach the round of 16.
Since the start of this season's Champions League, Atalanta has either drawn or lost against stronger opponents, such as a 0-0 draw with Arsenal and a 2-3 defeat by themselves. However, when facing weaker teams, they have managed to secure significant victories, including a 3-0 win over the miners and a 6-1 triumph over Young Boys Bern. Their performance against Graz Storm was no exception.
In the 12th minute, Zapacosta provided an assist, allowing Retegui to easily push the ball into the net, giving Atalanta a 1-0 lead.
In the 58th minute, Cuadrado dribbled past defenders before crossing the ball, which was then scored by Pasalic, extending Atalanta's lead to 2-0.
In the 63rd minute, Sien assisted De Ketelaere in scoring a low shot, further increasing Atalanta's advantage to 3-0.
In the 90th minute, De Ketelaere crossed the ball into the box, where Lukman headed it in with ease, ensuring a 4-0 lead for Atalanta.
In the 94th minute, Brechaniini skillfully dribbled past defenders inside the penalty area before shooting the ball into the net, securing a 5-0 victory for Atalanta.
Statistically, Atalanta had a 61% possession rate, completed 25 shots with 9 on target, and had 12 corner kicks, scoring 5 goals in open play with high efficiency. In contrast, Graz Storm only managed 5 shots with 1 on target, hardly posing any significant threat.
De Ketelaere, who contributed a goal and an assist for Atalanta, has now scored 4 goals and provided 5 assists in this season's Champions League, directly contributing to 9 goals. This surpasses De Bruyne's record (2 goals and 6 assists), setting a new benchmark for Belgian players in terms of direct goal involvement in a single season of the Champions League (post-reform).
With this victory, Atalanta has accumulated 14 points, rising from 13th to 3rd place, securing at least a playoff spot. They also have a chance to directly qualify for the round of 16. In their final match, they will face Barcelona away from home. A win would guarantee them a top-eight finish and direct entry into the round of 16.