Atalanta ended their near-month-long winless run in all competitions with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Monza in Sunday’s Serie A clash, thanks to Nikola Krstovic’s second-half strike.
The visitors, who had gone without a win since October 15, struggled to cope with Monza’s attacking pressure in the opening half at the U-Power Stadium.
Goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi proved crucial, making a series of impressive saves to keep his side in the contest.
Monza, who had lost their previous three matches, created several clear-cut opportunities but failed to convert their dominance into goals.
Gustavo Varela was among those who missed chances, while Ebeneezer Akinsanmiro narrowly failed to connect with Lorenzo Lucchesi’s delivery from close range.
Atalanta, despite their struggles, took the lead against the run of play shortly after the break.
Lorenzo Bernasconi delivered a low cross from the left, which Monza goalkeeper Noel Tornqvist failed to hold, allowing Krstovic to tap the ball into the net in the 49th minute.
The goal lifted Atalanta, who looked more threatening in the second half.
Tornqvist denied Mario Pasalic with an excellent save before Krstovic came close to doubling the lead, his effort from Eljif Elmas’ pass narrowly missing the target.
Monza continued to search for an equaliser, with Andrea Colpani forcing Carnesecchi into another important save with a powerful left-footed strike.
Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere also tested Tornqvist as the visitors sought to put the game beyond reach.
Colpani’s late penalty appeal was rejected in stoppage time, while Monza manager Ivan Juric was sent off during the tense closing moments.
Atalanta held on to secure all three points, ending their frustrating run of results and giving themselves a much-needed boost in the Serie A campaign.
