The Atalanta U23 showcased their offensive power with a decisive 5-2 victory over Lecco, dominating their opponents at the Caravaggio stadium during the last match of the first half of the Serie C season.
From the very beginning, Atalanta set the pace of the game, making their intentions clear. They took the lead at the 15th minute when Cassa, receiving the ball from Alessio, struck it neatly to the far post, finding the back of the net for the first time among the professionals. The young forward's goal signaled the start of Atalanta's strong offensive display.
Lecco, undeterred, managed to equalize just five minutes later through Galeandro. Showcasing quick thinking, he capitalized on the rebound from Ilari's effort, leveling the score at 1-1 and igniting brief hopes for the visiting fans.
Yet, the momentum quickly swung back to Atalanta. By the 32nd minute, Vlahovic showcased his speed, advancing deep and shooting at the goal, forcing Furlan's save but leaving Alessio right behind to pounce on the rebound, putting Atalanta back on top.
Cassa was not done. Capitalizing on another strong possession, he added his second goal at the 42nd minute, seamlessly weaving past defenders and placing his shot perfectly to stretch Atalanta's lead to 3-1 as the teams headed to halftime.
Clearly outmatched, Lecco faced frustration compounded by their defensive frailties. Despite having ample opportunities, they struggled to convert them, which would be painfully highlighted throughout the match. The first half concluded with Atalanta completely on top, demonstrating superior skill and teamwork.
The second half began with Lecco pushing to reduce the deficit. Their efforts paid off when Sipos made it 3-2 just seven minutes after the break, collecting the ball following Celjak's pass and slotting it past the Atalanta keeper, Pardel. This goal reignited hopes for the visitors as they attempted to mount a comeback.
Nevertheless, Atalanta quickly quashed any notions of Lecco's resurgence, with Vlahovic scoring his 13th league goal at the 64th minute. After evading Billong, he buried his shot, effectively re-establishing Atalanta's two-goal cushion.
Not relenting with just four goals, Atalanta pressed on, and at the 80th minute, Alessio put the game out of reach, netting his second goal of the day. His precision following a deft setup from Del Lungo showcased the team's attacking prowess and left the Lecco defense scrambling.
Despite continued efforts, Lecco would not find another way through Atalanta's solidified defense, and the match concluded with Atalanta celebrating their emphatic victory amid the home crowd.
This match was emblematic of the struggles Lecco has encountered this season. The defeat represented their sixth away loss, highlighting the urgent need to address their defensive vulnerabilities if they hope to improve their fortune as the season progresses.
Attending the match were 439 spectators, many of whom were vocal supporters of Lecco. The disappointment was palpable, particularly as Vedran Celjak marked his 150th appearance for the team. Post-match, calls for transformation reflected the stormy atmosphere surrounding Lecco's current state, where coach Gennaro Volpe may need to rethink his strategies moving forward.
Meanwhile, Atalanta U23 has reinforced its position as one of the top offenses, providing both excitement and commendations from fans and analysts alike. They are certainly a team to watch as they continue their campaign with confidence.
