On February 24, 2025, Atalanta U23 played to a 1-1 draw against AlbinoLeffe at the Comunale di Caravaggio, marking the 28th matchday of Serie C's NOW group A. This derby was particularly significant for both clubs, as they have historically competed closely, and it was intended to provide momentum for the struggling Atalanta side, which had faced four consecutive losses.
The match kicked off at 20:30 under the floodlights, with both teams eager to secure points. Atalanta U23, managed by Francesco Modesto, lined up in a 3-4-1-2 formation featuring goalkeeper Vismara and notable players such as Vavassori and Vlahović. Meanwhile, Giovanni Lopez's AlbinoLeffe took the field with their own 3-5-2 setup, including the talented forward Zoma.
Atalanta started the match brightly, creating several early opportunities. Navarro tested AlbinoLeffe's goalkeeper Marietta with a powerful shot from outside the box within the first ten minutes, but Marietta was equal to the challenge. Shortly after, Panada facilitated another chance by assisting Lonardo, who set up Vlahović, yet Marietta once again proved his worth with another save.
The breakthrough for AlbinoLeffe came at the 21st minute when Zoma, demonstrating exceptional skill, elegantly dribbled past two defenders before curling the ball past Vismara to give his team the lead. The goal highlighted defensive frailties on Atalanta’s part, and this setback seemed to spark urgency within the U23 squad.
Despite falling behind, Atalanta kept pushing for the equalizer. A notable chance occurred at the 35th minute when Lonardo's attempt missed its target, but the pressure paid off just before halftime. Vavassori found the net after being skillfully assisted by Lonardo, leveling the game at 1-1 with his accurate diagonal shot following troubled calls for injury from the AlbinoLeffe defenders.
The first half ended on this note, and both teams returned to the pitch with renewed determination. The second half opened with substitutions, and Atalanta demonstrated persistence. They nearly took the lead shortly after the restart when Obrić had a header deflected away for a corner.
Atalanta continued to dominate possession and create scoring chances throughout the second half, with impactful plays from Bergonzi and creative combinations between Panada and Scheffer. They saw multiple attempts thwarted by the impressive Marietta, who was steadfast between the posts for AlbinoLeffe.
One of the most significant moments came at the 61st minute when Bergonzi found himself one-on-one with Marietta after orchestrated teamwork by the forwards, but once again, the goalkeeper made the save of the match.
AlbinoLeffe fought to find their rhythm and had chances to sneak past Atalanta, particularly through Boloca, whose late effort was parried by Vismara, consolidifying the stalemate. Eventually, the match concluded with both teams sharing the spoils.
The final score—1-1—served as relief to Atalanta, breaking their losing streak and offering them hope as they continue the campaign. With strong performances from players like Vavassori and opportunities missed by others, the young Atalanta side remains determined to mount challenges for playoff qualification moving forward.
Both teams demonstrated resilience and tactical adjustments throughout the derby, indicating their respective ambitions within Serie C as they look to push for higher placements as the season proceeds.