Atalanta secured their place in the Champions League on Monday, defeating Roma 2-1 and mathematically sealing a spot in Serie A’s top four. Ibrahim Sulemana’s 76th-minute strike gave Atalanta a seven-point lead over fifth-placed Lazio, with just two matches remaining in the season.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side had opened the scoring early through Ademola Lookman. However, Roma equalized in the 32nd minute with a header from former Atalanta player Bryan Cristante.
Sulemana’s goal ended Roma’s 19-match unbeaten streak, leaving them one point behind Lazio and Juventus, who sit in fourth place. Roma still have a chance to qualify for Europe’s top competition but face a tough challenge against in-form AC Milan next weekend. Juventus will play Udinese.
For Roma, making the Champions League would be a remarkable achievement under Claudio Ranieri, who took over in November when the club was struggling near the relegation zone. As for Gasperini, rumors suggest he may be in line to replace Ranieri at Roma after a successful stint with Atalanta, where he guided the team to Europa League success last season.
