Atalanta Dominates Schalke 3-0, Sassuolo Falls in Thriller to Augsburg
Atalanta delivered a commanding performance, defeating Schalke 04 with a decisive 3-0 scoreline, thanks to goals from Gianluca Scamacca, Lazar Samardzic, and Nikola Krstovic. In a separate friendly match, Sassuolo was narrowly beaten 3-2 in an exciting contest against Augsburg.
Charles De Ketelaere made his return to the starting lineup for Atalanta, marking his first appearance since his notable World Cup campaign with Belgium.
Giorgio Scalvini came close to opening the scoring in the eighth minute, but his powerful shot struck the goal frame. However, Atalanta soon found the breakthrough when Scamacca converted a pass from new signing Gianluca Gaetano.
Schalke 04 tested Atalanta's goalkeeper, Marco Carnesecchi, and even hit the woodwork themselves through Karaman. Nevertheless, Samardzic extended Atalanta's lead with a counter-attack goal. Carnesecchi made another crucial save against Adamu, but Krstovic sealed the 3-0 victory for Atalanta with an impressive display of footwork to evade his marker.
In Germany, Sassuolo participated in their final pre-season match, engaging in a thrilling 3-2 encounter with Augsburg.
Andrea Pinamonti put Sassuolo ahead early from a penalty, which was awarded after Josh Doig was fouled. Cristian Volpato then scored a spectacular solo goal, making a surging run forward and skillfully dribbling past the goalkeeper. However, Augsburg managed to turn the game around. Goals from Fellhauer and Kade highlighted ongoing defensive concerns for Sassuolo's goalkeeper, Arijanet Muric, particularly against crosses. Behrens completed the comeback, securing a 3-2 win for the German side.
Schalke 0-3 Atalanta
Scamacca 30' (A), Samardzic 39' (A), Krstovic 87' (A)
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