January 27, (THEWILL) – Atalanta ascended into Serie A’s coveted UEFA Champions League positions on Saturday, following a decisive 2-0 victory over struggling opponents Udinese at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo. A first-half brace courtesy of Russian attacking midfielder Aleksei Miranchuk and Italian striker Gianluca Scamacca sealed maximum points for manager Gian Piero Gasperini’s charges.
The crucial result elevates last season’s Coppa Italia finalists two points above fifth-placed ACF Fiorentina into Serie A’s top four. La Viola can reclaim the fourth spot by defeating former league leaders Inter Milan at Artemio Franchi Stadium on Sunday evening but that will be a tall order.
Meanwhile, opponents Udinese Calcio remain perilously perched just one point above the relegation zone in 16th after succumbing to their third loss in four matches. Under-fire manager Gabriele Cioffi will demand an immediate reaction from his troops given their precarious position.
In Saturday’s other fixtures, league titans Juventus can extend their lead atop Serie A to four points with a victory at home against struggling Empoli. AC Milan also host surprise package Bologna at the iconic San Siro Stadium.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
