Atalanta delivered a stunning performance in the Champions League, defeating Young Boys 6-1 at the Wankdorf Stadium. The match showcased the brilliance of Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere, who combined for an impressive display, with De Ketelaere contributing three assists and scoring two goals
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Charles De Ketelaere (ATA), center, celebrates his goal after scoring the 5-1 with teammates during the UEFA Champions League soccer match between Switzerland’s BSC Young Boys and Italy’s Atalanta Bergamo, at the Wankdorf stadium in Bern, Switzerland, 26 November 2024. EPA-EFE/ANTHONY ANEX
Coach Gian Piero Gasperini opted to rest key player Ademola Lookman, allowing Retegui and De Ketelaere to take center stage. The duo quickly established a rhythm, connecting effectively to score four of the team’s goals. Kolasinac also found the net, while Samardzic capped off the scoring in the final moments.
Atalanta’s first goal came just nine minutes into the match when De Ketelaere set up Retegui, who calmly slotted the ball home. Young Boys briefly equalized through Ganvoula’s header, but Atalanta quickly regained control. De Ketelaere’s skillful play led to Kolasinac’s goal, and shortly after, Retegui added his second of the night.
The second half saw Atalanta maintain their grip on the game, with De Ketelaere continuing to shine. He scored another goal early in the half, showcasing his ability to find space and finish effectively. As Atalanta rotated their squad with substitutions, they remained in control and limited Young Boys’ chances.
The match concluded with Samardzic scoring a spectacular goal to seal a comprehensive victory for Atalanta. This win not only boosts their confidence but also elevates them to fourth place in the group standings.
Goals: 9′ & 34′ Retegui (A), 11′ Ganvoula (YB), 29′ & 56′ De Ketelaere (A), 32′ Kolasinac (A), 90′ Samardzic (A)
Young Boys (4-3-3): Von Ballmoos; Blum, Lauper, Camara, Hadjam; Lakomi (46′ Males), Ugrinic, Niasse; Monteiro (67′ Elia); Ganvoula (61′ Itten), Colley (46′ Virginius)
Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Kossounou, Hien (80′ Godfrey), Kolasinac (75′ Toloi); Cuadrado, De Roon, Pasalic, Ruggeri; Brescianini (64′ Samardzic); De Ketelaere (75′ Palestra), Retegui (64′ Zaniolo)
