Atalanta BC secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over US Sassuolo Calcio in their opening match of the Serie A 2026/2027 season on August 23, 2026, according to match reports from la Repubblica and isport.blesk.cz. Despite Sassuolo dominating statistical metrics including expected goals, a decisive late strike from Nikola Krstović lifted the Bergamo side to their first three points of the campaign under new manager Maurizio Sarri.
Raspadori Opens Scoring as Sassuolo Dominates Early Chances
The match at the Gewiss Stadium began with intense action as Atalanta struck early against the run of play. According to match logs, Giacomo Raspadori capitalized on the home side’s first proper attacking sequence in the 6th minute, assisted by Gaetano. Despite falling behind, US Sassuolo Calcio maintained heavy pressure. According to isport.blesk.cz, the visitors proved to be the more dangerous side throughout the opening period, registering an expected goals (xG) tally of 1.66 in the first half alone. However, Sassuolo repeatedly failed to convert their opportunities, frequently thwarted by Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi.
Odenthal Equalizes Before Krstović Wins It Late
Sassuolo’s persistent pressure finally paid off shortly after halftime. According to match records, defender Cas Odenthal leveled the score at 1-1 in the 55th minute following a throw-in routine. With momentum firmly shifted toward the visitors, Atalanta found themselves under severe defensive strain. Following a swift counterattack sparked by a clearance from their goalkeeper, substitute Nikola Krstović maneuvered cleverly to score in the 65th minute, sealing a 2-1 final scoreline. Sassuolo continued to press in the closing stages, but Carnesecchi stood firm to preserve the victory.
Match Statistics and Next Fixtures
The underlying statistics highlight a match where Sassuolo controlled significant portions of the attacking threat. According to post-match data compiled by isport.blesk.cz, Sassuolo accumulated an expected goals (xG) figure of 2.72 compared to Atalanta’s 0.72, while outshooting the hosts 17 to 11 overall and holding an 8-7 advantage in shots on target. Possession favored Atalanta, while fouls were tightly contested at 9 to 10 before a crowd of 20,828 spectators. Looking ahead, isport.blesk.cz reports that Atalanta faces a quick turnaround with a UEFA Conference League play-off second leg against Hapoel Tel Aviv following a scoreless first leg, before returning to Serie A action to host Bologna. Sassuolo will use the midweek break to prepare for their first home match of the season against Torino.
Did You Know?
Maurizio Sarri took charge of Atalanta BC ahead of the 2026/2027 campaign following a challenging previous season for the Bergamo club, instantly securing an opening-day victory despite being out-shot by their opponents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Atalanta vs. Sassuolo match?
Atalanta defeated Sassuolo 2-1, according to reports from la Repubblica and isport.blesk.cz.
Who scored the goals for Atalanta?
Giacomo Raspadori opened the scoring in the 6th minute, and Nikola Krstović netted the winning goal in the 65th minute.
Who scored for Sassuolo?
Cas Odenthal scored for Sassuolo in the 55th minute following a throw-in.
Who is the manager of Atalanta BC?
Maurizio Sarri manages Atalanta BC, taking over following the previous season.
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