Atalanta’s hopes of catching up with Inter Milan at the top of Serie A were dashed on Saturday as they were held to a goalless draw by Venezia. This result means that Atalanta remains in third place, two points behind Inter, who are set to face Napoli in a crucial title clash later.
The team managed by Gian Piero Gasperini are still very much in the title race, but their inability to secure a win at home is proving to be a stumbling block. Atalanta has not been victorious in front of their home fans in Serie A since the beginning of the year, a concerning trend that is hindering their bid for a historic Scudetto.
Davide Zappacosta came close to breaking the deadlock just before half-time, hitting the post after a brilliant assist from Ademola Lookman. Lookman himself had missed a golden opportunity earlier on, failing to convert a one-on-one chance against Venezia goalkeeper Ionut Rdau. In the 82nd minute, the Nigerian forward once again squandered a chance by sending the ball over the crossbar from close range.
Mateo Retegui also missed several good chances as Atalanta’s typically dynamic attack struggled to find a way past Venezia’s resolute defense. Despite the disappointment of dropping points at home, the surprise draw gives Venezia a slight boost in their battle to avoid relegation. Eusebio Di Francesco’s side is now five points adrift of Parma, who are just outside the relegation zone and are set to play Udinese in the late fixture on Saturday.
The stalemate against Venezia serves as a reminder of Atalanta’s inconsistency at home this season, a factor that could potentially derail their title ambitions. Gasperini will need to find a solution to their struggles at the Gewiss Stadium if they are to maintain their challenge for the Serie A crown.
