SPORT NEWS
Lookman and Zaniolo Lead Atalanta to Commanding 2-0 Victory Over Stuttgart

Bergamo, Italy – Atalanta’s unbeaten Champions League campaign rolled on as second-half goals from Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman and Nicolo Zaniolo secured a 2-0 victory over VfB Stuttgart on Wednesday. The Italian side extended their streak without conceding in this year’s competition, showcasing both defensive strength and attacking precision.
Lookman broke the deadlock in the 51st minute, skillfully tapping in a cross from Charles De Ketelaere, who had just come on as a second-half substitute. With Stuttgart unable to break through Atalanta’s disciplined defense, Zaniolo sealed the win two minutes from time with a well-placed finish past Stuttgart’s Alexander Nubel, capitalizing on a lapse in the German side’s backline.
The result saw Atalanta rise to ninth in the standings with eight points, while Stuttgart slipped from the playoff zone, dropping to 27th with four points. The loss ended Stuttgart’s impressive home record, which had seen them unbeaten in all competitions for over a year.
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini praised his team’s resilience and character. “We came here with ambition but to win here required much more,” Gasperini told Sky Sport. “The way this victory came gives us confidence—we won with personality.”
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Despite Atalanta controlling the majority of possession in the first half, it was Stuttgart who came closest to scoring, missing key opportunities through Anthony Rouault and Deniz Undav. However, De Ketelaere’s introduction at halftime injected fresh energy into Atalanta’s attack, with his skillful dribbling setting up Lookman’s opener.
Stuttgart, who recently defeated Juventus in Turin, struggled to find a way through Atalanta’s organized defense. The German side’s hopes of a comeback faded as substitute Zaniolo capitalized on a defensive error late in the match to make it 2-0.
Atalanta now join Inter Milan as the only two teams in this year’s Champions League who have yet to concede a goal. Reflecting on his team’s defensive record, Gasperini emphasized, “In all the games we have played, we’ve shown solidity and have not suffered much. Our defensive phase has been strong, and we’ve built our points on that.”
Atalanta will look to continue their excellent form as they progress in the Champions League, aiming to maintain both their unbeaten streak and impeccable defensive record.


