ATALANTA vs JUVENTUS 1-1 | HIGHLIGHTS | Serie A

Juventus were held yet again as they drew 1-1 at Atalanta in Serie A on Tuesday, with Pierre Kalulu's early second-half goal canceled out by a late equalizer from Mateo Retegui. The result highlights a pattern of inconsistency for the Bianconeri, as their total number of league draws this season climbed to 13 from 20 matches. While the point earned keeps Juventus in fifth place with 34 points, it is far from the position they hoped to occupy at this stage of the campaign. Meanwhile, Atalanta, also in the midst of a three-match run of draws, remain firmly in third with 43 points, maintaining a four-point gap behind league leaders Napoli.

Kalulu’s breakthrough came nine minutes after the interval, a much-needed injection of life into what had been a relatively uneventful first half. Latching onto Weston McKennie’s precise pass into the box, Kalulu showcased his composure, sliding the ball past an advancing Marco Carnesecchi at the near post. The goal underscored Kalulu's growing importance to Juventus' setup, as he continues to contribute in crucial moments despite the team’s overall struggles.

However, Atalanta were not content to settle for defeat and gradually built momentum. Substitute Mateo Retegui, who had recently returned from injury, delivered a stunning equalizer in the 78th minute. Connecting with a pinpoint cross from Raoul Bellanova, Retegui executed a diving header that left Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio rooted to the spot. The strike not only salvaged a point for Atalanta but also propelled Retegui to the top of the Serie A scorers' list with 13 goals, cementing his status as one of the league's most dangerous forwards this season.

Despite the shared spoils, both teams managed to post notable records. For Atalanta, the draw extended their unbeaten streak in Serie A to 15 games, marking only the second time in the club’s history they’ve achieved such consistency. On the other hand, Juventus manager Thiago Motta added his own milestone, becoming only the second Juve coach to remain unbeaten in his first 20 Serie A matches. This achievement places him alongside Antonio Conte, though Motta’s frustration with the frequent draws was evident.

The match began with Atalanta dominating possession in the first half, yet neither side could find the decisive edge. Juventus had the best chance of the opening period when former Atalanta player Teun Koopmeiners nearly turned provider, stretching to connect with a dangerous cross. However, Carnesecchi was alert and cleared the ball to safety. The lackluster first half was indicative of the cautious approach both teams adopted, seemingly more intent on avoiding mistakes than creating chances.

Juventus emerged with renewed energy after the break, nearly taking the lead in dramatic fashion. Kalulu’s header from a corner struck the post and rolled tantalizingly along the goal line before Carnesecchi managed to clear the danger. The sequence sparked a chaotic few minutes, with Khephren Thuram’s follow-up attempt being blocked, only for Atalanta to launch a swift counter-attack. Mario Pasalic had an opportunity to capitalize on the break but sent his shot wide from the edge of the box, letting Juventus off the hook.

Kalulu’s eventual goal was a moment of quality in an otherwise gritty encounter. His ability to exploit space and finish clinically was a testament to Juventus’ attacking potential when their approach is decisive. Yet, the match’s intensity escalated further after the goal. Atalanta midfielder Éderson nearly leveled the score with a low shot that forced Di Gregorio into a spectacular diving save. Moments later, Ademola Lookman’s effort seemed destined for the back of the net until Koopmeiners intervened with a last-ditch clearance near the goal line.

As the hosts pressed for an equalizer, their persistence paid off with Retegui’s crucial strike. Bellanova’s delivery was inch-perfect, and Retegui’s technique—diving low to direct the ball past Di Gregorio—was exemplary. The goal lifted the crowd at Gewiss Stadium, providing a much-needed boost to Atalanta’s campaign and reaffirming their credentials as top-four contenders.

The closing stages of the match saw both teams push for a winner, resulting in a frenetic finish. Carnesecchi demonstrated his reflexes with a stunning save to deny Manuel Locatelli’s powerful header, while Di Gregorio used his legs to thwart Nicolò Zaniolo in a one-on-one situation moments later. Juventus’ Kenan Yildiz came agonizingly close to snatching all three points in stoppage time, but his angled drive grazed the outside of the post, leaving the visitors to settle for yet another draw.

In his post-match comments, Motta expressed a mix of pride and frustration. “It’s clear that we can’t be happy with the result; we go on the pitch to win,” he said. “We played well, created some interesting situations, but we weren’t good enough to score. It’s true that we have drawn a lot this season and are not happy about that. However, the players performed well, and I have to acknowledge their effort and commitment.”

For Juventus, the draw highlighted their ongoing struggles to convert dominance into victories. While Kalulu’s performance was a bright spot, the team’s inability to close out games has become a recurring theme. With 13 draws in 20 matches, the Bianconeri’s lack of cutting edge has cost them valuable points in a tightly contested Serie A table. Motta’s unbeaten record may offer some solace, but Juventus must find a way to turn these stalemates into wins if they are to challenge for a top-four finish.

Atalanta, meanwhile, will take heart from their resilience and ability to compete against one of Italy’s most storied clubs. Retegui’s return from injury and immediate impact are promising signs for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side, who continue to punch above their weight in the league. With a solid defensive record and an attack capable of producing moments of brilliance, Atalanta remain firmly in the hunt for a Champions League spot.

Looking ahead, both teams face critical fixtures that could shape their seasons. Juventus will need to address their attacking inefficiencies before their next match, while Atalanta must build on their momentum to maintain their position in the top four. As the Serie A campaign enters its second half, the margins between success and failure grow ever thinner, and both clubs will be acutely aware of the need to capitalize on every opportunity.

In the end, the 1-1 draw at Gewiss Stadium encapsulated much of what has defined this Serie A season: moments of individual brilliance, tactical battles, and a pervasive sense of unpredictability. While neither side left entirely satisfied, the spectacle served as a reminder of the drama and excitement that continues to make Italian football a compelling watch for fans around the world.