Duván Zapata double saves Atalanta against Ajax

Duván Zapata’s first double in the Champions League. The Colombian forward was not only Atalanta’s great figure for goals, but also for his movements and constant help to the midfielders when Ajax closed and it was difficult to break the lines. A goal from the head and another from pure power saved the Italian team in the debut in Without a doubt Stadium for Champions.

The game began calmly for Atalanta. Papu Gómez was in charge of connecting the flyers and Duván Zapata, who always played outside the area to join Gosens, Pasalic and Ilicic. In the 14th minute, the locals had the first option for Ilicic’s shot that passed very close to Onana’s goal.

A minute later, Duván Zapata at sheer power gained space and crossed the finish, but could not place the shot. Atalanta dominated the game, but at minute 28, Gosens raised his leg too high and hit Traoré in the area and the judge decreed a penalty. The person in charge of collecting it was Tadic. The Serbian sent her inside with quality.

After the goal, the Italian team disconnected and the Ajax took confidence to continue creating danger and at minute 37 found the second. Great play by David Neres, the Brazilian overflowed on the left wing, crossed to look for Traoré who pushed it and Sportiello could not get it out despite the fact that the shot was without power.

Duván Zapata saves Atalanta

Ajax came out pressing in the complementary part, while Atalanta had a hard time catching the ball. At minute 50, Ilicic had the discount on a free kick, but Onana was very sure. The locals gave many spaces and the Netherlands team took advantage of them. In the 52nd minute, Schuurs had the third, but Sportiello saved.

After Ajax’s option, Atalanta decided to wake up and at minute 53 came Atalanta’s discount. Papu Gómez’s masterful center and Duván Zapata’s header to the floor to defeat Onana. Great goal from the Colombian striker.

In less than five minutes the Italian team achieved the tie. Collective player. Pasalic assisted Duván Zapata who started at full speed and defined powerful to leave Onana without an option. The Colombian made a masterful move to go hand in hand with the goalkeeper and thus score his third goal this season in the Champions League.

At 77 ‘, Gasperini decided to send Luis Muriel to the field for Papu Gómez. The Colombian had few goal options and could not have space to achieve the winning goal. Atalanta saves a point, after going 0-2 down and now adds 4 points in two Champions League dates, on the next date they will host Liverpool. Great game.

For Serie A he will visit Crotone. Atalanta need to add three after two consecutive defeats to Napoli and Sampdoria.