Gian Piero Gasperini’s return to Bergamo ended in disappointment as Roma were defeated 1-0 by Atalanta at the Gewiss Stadium, marking the Giallorossi’s third consecutive Serie A away loss. The home side recorded their fourth victory in five league matches, strengthening their position in the table.
Roma had a promising opportunity just seven minutes in when Paulo Dybala capitalised on Ederson’s underhit backpass and played in Evan Ferguson. Ferguson’s initial shot was saved by Marco Carnesecchi, and his chipped rebound was cleared off the line by the retreating Berat Djimsiti. Despite this early chance, Roma were unable to convert, highlighting their struggles away from the Stadio Olimpico.
Atalanta responded immediately, taking the lead in the 12th minute. Nicola Zalewski’s corner was mishandled by Mile Svilar, allowing Giorgio Scalvini to bundle the ball in. The goal, confirmed after a lengthy VAR review, was Scalvini’s second of the season. The opening goal proved decisive, continuing a trend this season in which the team scoring first has won 16 of Roma’s 17 matches.
— Atalanta B.C. (@Atalanta_BC) January 3, 2026
Roma continued to press, with Gianluca Scamacca and Zalewski creating opportunities, while Scamacca appeared to score a header from Lorenzo Bernasconi’s cross. However, a lengthy VAR check ruled the goal out for offside.
The second half saw further chances for both sides. Ferguson forced a sharp save from Carnesecchi, while Matias Soule’s strike at the near post was also denied. Atalanta looked to extend their lead, with Bernasconi shooting narrowly wide and Nikola Krstovic heading over from a corner in the final ten minutes. Roma’s best effort came from a Dybala bicycle kick that drifted well wide.
Roma’s defeat marks a fourth loss in six league matches, all by a single goal, further complicating their Serie A title aspirations. Atalanta, meanwhile, avoided consecutive home defeats for the first time since March, continuing their strong form under Gasperini.
