Serie A: Lookman's Double Sinks Leaders Napoli

Gasperini's Tactical Masterclass Downs Napoli

Napoli fielded the same starting XI that defeated Milan 2-0 midweek...

Ademola Lookman scored twice as Atalanta handed Napoli a surprise 3-1 loss, ending their three-game clean sheet streak.

Atalanta pulled off a stunning 3-1 victory over Serie A leaders Napoli, thanks to Ademola Lookman's early brace and Mateo Retegui's late strike. This defeat marked only Napoli's second loss of the season.

Napoli fielded the same starting XI that defeated Milan 2-0 midweek, with Billy Gilmour replacing the injured Stanislav Lobotka. However, Atalanta's Gian Piero Gasperini surprisingly benched top scorer Mateo Retegui, opting for a tactical surprise against Antonio Conte's defense.

Atalanta broke through after sustained pressure, as Matias Olivera's clearance fell to Charles De Ketelaere, who flicked it to Lookman for a tight-angled volley in the 15th minute. Scott McTominay almost leveled within two minutes, but his powerful shot hit the upright.

Lookman doubled Atalanta's lead with a right-footed scorcher from outside the box in the 25th minute. Isak Hien and Berat Djimsiti made crucial interventions to deny Napoli goals. Mario Pasalic wasted a chance to make it 3-0 just before halftime.

After the restart, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia tested Marco Carnesecchi. Sead Kolasinac's goal was ruled out for offside and foul play in the 57th minute.

Napoli poured forward, but were almost caught out on the Kossounou counter-attack, finished by Lookman onto the side-netting. Giovanni Simeone and Cyril Ngonge had efforts charged down, while the ex-Bologna winger also tested Carnesecchi at the near post.

Mateo Retegui scored a splendid low volley after coming off the bench in the 80th minute. His over-celebration sparked tension between the teams.

This victory continued a trend of decisive results between Atalanta and Napoli, with only one draw in their last 19 Serie A meetings.

The final score read 3-1 in favor of Atalanta.

Stats:

° Atalanta ends Napoli's three-game clean sheet streak.

° Lookman scores twice.

° Retegui scores off the bench.

Match Summary:

Atalanta: Ademola Lookman (15', 25'), Mateo Retegui (80')

Napoli: None