Super Eagles star, Ademola Lookman, found the net as Atalanta cruised to a commanding 4-0 victory over Monza on Sunday, bolstering their push for a Champions League spot.
The defeat confirmed Monza’s relegation from Serie A, drawing the curtain on their three-year stay in Italy’s top flight.
Charles De Ketelaere gave Atalanta an early advantage, scoring twice in the first half—his first league goals since before the festive period.
Lookman and Marco Brescianini then sealed the win with composed finishes after the interval, lifting Gian Piero Gasperini’s men six points clear of fifth-placed Juventus ahead of the Bianconeri’s critical match at Bologna later that evening.
Despite the comfortable win, Atalanta’s Champions League qualification isn’t guaranteed yet.
They have three fixtures remaining, including a crucial home encounter against top-four contenders Roma next weekend.
The match in Monza was overshadowed by a tragic incident the night before. Riccardo Claris, a 26-year-old Atalanta supporter, was fatally stabbed during an altercation with Inter Milan fans near the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo. In a poignant tribute, Atalanta fans unfurled a banner reading, Claris everywhere with us
Monza’s demotion was mathematically sealed after the heavy loss. Coached by Alessandro Nesta and backed by the Berlusconi family, the team now sits 12 points behind Lecce, who were beaten by league leaders Napoli on Saturday—and will join Serie B next season.
Meanwhile, the race for the final Champions League spots remains intense. Roma, on an 18-match unbeaten run, could leap into fourth place if they defeat Fiorentina before Juventus face Bologna. Claudio Ranieri’s side trails Lazio by three points but holds a better head-to-head record.
Earlier in the day, Lazio edged past Empoli with a narrow 1-0 win, thanks to Boulaye Dia’s lightning-fast strike.
The result placed them a point above Juventus in the final Champions League berth, with Bologna just a point further behind.
Lazio’s upcoming clash with Juve could prove pivotal in determining who secures the last two places in Europe’s premier club competition.
At the top end of the table, Napoli and Inter Milan remain locked in a fierce battle for the Scudetto, far ahead of the chasing contenders.
