Atalanta Players Reflect on Positive End to 2024 After Lazio Draw

Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman and Marco Carnesecchi expressed satisfaction with their team’s late equalizer against Lazio, viewing it as a positive conclusion to 2024 before they prepare for the upcoming Supercoppa Italiana.

The match proved challenging for Atalanta, with goalkeeper Carnesecchi making crucial saves in the first half. Lazio took the lead through Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, but Marco Brescianini’s 88th-minute tap-in from Lookman’s assist secured a draw for Atalanta.

Lookman, who had a stellar 2024 winning both the Europa League and African Player of the Year, commented on the match: “It was a difficult game, especially in the first half. We fought hard and could have won on another day. A draw is a positive outcome.”

Looking ahead, Atalanta faces Inter in the Supercoppa Italiana semi-final on January 2nd in Riyadh. Lookman acknowledged the challenge: “It’s another big game. We know Inter’s strength, but we’ll show our quality and fight.”

Carnesecchi reflected on Atalanta’s progress: “We’re pleased to maintain our position at the top of the table, but there’s still much work ahead. This point was crucial, and now we can focus on preparing for the Supercoppa.”

The draw ended Atalanta’s 11-game winning streak but extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches. It also ensured they finished 2024 at the top of Serie A, regardless of other results.

Both players expressed optimism for the future, with Carnesecchi noting his personal growth: “You can see the results on the field. I feel more balanced and physically fit, which helps my performance.”

As Atalanta closes a successful 2024, the team looks forward to new challenges in the coming year, starting with the prestigious Supercoppa Italiana.