Atalanta Edge Arezzo 3-2 in Pre-Season Friendly

Atalanta kicked off their 2026 pre-season preparations with an entertaining 3-2 victory over Serie C side Arezzo at the Gewiss Stadium on 27 July 2026. The match, played in front of a lively crowd, saw the Serie A side test their fitness and attacking edge ahead of the new campaign.

Match Overview

Gian Piero Gasperini's men dominated possession from the outset, but Arezzo proved stubborn opponents. The visitors took a surprise lead in the 22nd minute through a well-worked counter-attack, only for Atalanta to respond with two quick goals before half-time. A second-half adjustment from Arezzo made it 2-2, but a late strike from a young Atalanta substitute sealed the 3-2 win.

Key Moments

• 22' – Arezzo strike first: A clinical finish from outside the box caught Atalanta's reserve goalkeeper off guard.
• 35' – Atalanta equalise: A sweeping team move ended with a composed finish inside the far post.
• 42' – Atalanta go ahead: A deflected free-kick gave the home side a 2-1 lead at the break.
• 68' – Arezzo level: A header from a corner restored parity against a rotated Atalanta defence.
• 84' – Winning goal: A 17-year-old academy product latched onto a through ball and slotted home for the decisive 3-2.

Standout Performers

Atalanta's midfield engine room showed encouraging signs, with new signing Mateo Retegui pulling the strings before being substituted at half-time. For Arezzo, veteran striker Lorenzo Mustacchio was a constant threat and scored the opener. The match also highlighted Atalanta's deep squad as they used five substitutes in each half.

Pre-Season Context

This friendly is part of Atalanta's standard summer build-up, with Gasperini focusing on integrating younger players and testing tactical variations. The win continues their tradition of strong pre-season performances, though the two goals conceded will provide points for defensive drills ahead of their Serie A opener. Arezzo, preparing for their Lega Pro campaign, will take heart from their competitive showing against top-tier opposition.

The result gives Atalanta a positive start to their friendly schedule, with further matches planned against international opponents before the league season begins in mid-August.