Gian Piero Gasperini admits Piotr Zielinski’s moment of magic “changed the game” after Atalanta lost 3-1 to Napoli.
The Bergamo boys had taken the lead through Bryan Cristante, threatening a third consecutive victory over the Partenopei after doing the double last season.
However, Zielinski’s scorching strike equalised, paving the way for Dries Mertens and Marko Rog goals.
Gian Piero Gasperini admits Piotr Zielinski’s moment of magic “changed the game” after Atalanta lost 3-1 to Napoli.
The Bergamo boys had taken the lead through Bryan Cristante, threatening a third consecutive victory over the Partenopei after doing the double last season.
However, Zielinski’s scorching strike equalised, paving the way for Dries Mertens and Marko Rog goals.
“They stepped up the tempo in the second half and Zielinski’s goal changed the game in a moment when we were very dangerous,” the Coach told Rai Sport.
“It was an incident that turned the match on its head, because once the spaces open up, Napoli are really difficult to contain.
“We caused Napoli a lot of problems, more frankly than many other teams have managed. We suffered two defeats to great sides like Roma and Napoli, but the method of the losses hurt, because we put in really good performances.”
Leonardo Spinazzola was again out of the squad after trying to force a Juventus transfer, but will he be welcomed back once the window closes?
“In a few days, everything will deflate. He has been called up for international duty, I hope he can find his focus. When he does return, he’ll have to take a different attitude, because his teammates are not to blame for this whole situation.”