Napoli’s Serie A title ambitions suffered a setback as Atalanta came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory, extending La Dea’s unbeaten league run to nine matches (7 wins, 2 draws).
After a cautious opening, the visitors struck first in the 18th minute. A well-placed free-kick from Miguel Gutierrez found Sam Beukema unmarked inside the box, and the defender made no mistake from six yards out, netting his second league goal of the season.
Atalanta responded with determination, creating their first real chance in the 35th minute.
Kamaldeen Sulemana’s effort was superbly saved by Vanja Milinkovic-Savic at his near post, keeping Napoli ahead.
Drama ensued just before halftime when Napoli were initially awarded a penalty after Isak Hien appeared to foul Rasmus Hojlund.
VAR intervened, and referee Daniele Chiffi overturned the decision, much to the relief of the home crowd at the New Balance Arena.
The second half began with another moment of controversy. Gutierrez appeared to double Atalanta’s lead within 23 seconds, only for the goal to be ruled out for a foul in the build-up by Hojlund.
Napoli’s leveller came shortly after the hour mark from a set-piece. Nicola Zalewski’s corner found Mario Pasalic, whose glancing header beat Milinkovic-Savic to restore parity and energize the home side.
Buoyed by the equaliser, Atalanta continued to press and were rewarded late in the game.
Lazar Samardzic rose to meet Lorenzo Bernasconi’s cross, directing a precise header into the bottom corner to seal the victory and delight the Atalanta faithful.
The win keeps Atalanta in seventh place as they now shift focus to their UEFA Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund, fighting for a Round of 16 spot.
Napoli, meanwhile, remain third and will look to bounce back in their next league match against relegation-threatened Hellas Verona.
