Atalanta Run Riot in Champions League, Crush Young Boys 6-1

Atalanta extended their remarkable run of form in the Champions League with a resounding 6-1 victory over Young Boys in Bern. The Italian side, unbeaten in the competition so far, delivered a masterclass in attacking football, spearheaded by the scintillating Charles De Ketelaere.

The match began with an early goal from Mateo Retegui, who put Atalanta ahead within minutes. However, the Swiss champions responded quickly as Ganvoula capitalized on a corner to level the score. Despite this promising start, Young Boys' hope for an upset was short-lived.

De Ketelaere ignited Atalanta’s dominance in the 28th minute with a composed finish to restore their lead. The young Belgian then turned provider, setting up Sead Kolasinac for Atalanta’s third before assisting Retegui for his second goal of the night. By halftime, Atalanta were cruising at 4-1, leaving the home side shell-shocked.

Despite their comfortable advantage, Atalanta showed no signs of complacency in the second half. De Ketelaere struck again, adding his second goal and fourth contribution of the evening to extend the lead to 5-1. Lazar Samardzic capped off a dominant display with a brilliant solo effort in the dying moments of the game, sealing a historic win for the Serie A side.

Young Boys, who managed an xG of just 0.78 compared to Atalanta’s 2.19, struggled to keep pace with the visitors' intensity. The result leaves the Swiss champions at the bottom of the 36-team Champions League table, with no points from five matches. Atalanta, on the other hand, sit comfortably in fourth place with 11 points, continuing to impress in their European campaign.

De Ketelaere Steals the Show

De Ketelaere’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. The Belgian forward was involved in four of Atalanta’s goals, showcasing his vision, creativity, and clinical finishing. With this performance, he firmly established himself as a key player in Gian Piero Gasperini's squad and one of Europe’s rising stars.

What’s Next?

Young Boys will need to regroup quickly as they face St. Gallen in domestic action this weekend. For Atalanta, the focus shifts to their Serie A campaign, where they will take on Roma in a crucial match as they continue their push for both domestic and European glory.

Atalanta’s emphatic victory not only solidifies their position as a dark horse in this year’s Champions League but also sends a warning to other contenders: the Bergamo-based side are a force to be reckoned with.