Atalanta’s Serie A season began with a 1-1 draw against Pisa, with Scamacca’s goal salvaging a point. New coach Juric faces challenges in replacing Gasperini and addressing attacking concerns after Lookman’s potential departure and Retegui’s move. Pisa marked their Serie A return after 34 years with a resilient performance. Juric aims for improvement as Atalanta prepares for upcoming matches and Champions League campaign.
Atalanta's 2025-26 Serie A campaign began on a disappointing note as they were held to a 1-1 draw by newly-promoted Pisa at the Gewiss Stadium. Despite Gianluca Scamacca's second-half equalizer, new coach Ivan Juric couldn't secure a winning start in his first league match in charge.
The match saw Pisa take a surprising lead in the 26th minute through an Isak Hien own goal. Atalanta, missing the attacking prowess of Ademola Lookman, who is reportedly seeking a move away from the club, struggled to convert their early dominance into goals. The home side's inability to capitalize on their chances proved costly as Pisa defended resolutely.
Scamacca's moment of brilliance arrived early in the second half when he unleashed a well-placed curling shot to level the score. The goal injected fresh energy into Atalanta's attack, and they intensified their efforts to find a winner. However, despite registering a total of 21 shots throughout the match, Pisa's defense stood firm, denying Atalanta the breakthrough they desperately sought.
This draw marks the first time since 2017 that Atalanta has failed to win their opening Serie A match of the season. The result underscores the challenges that lie ahead for Juric as he steps into the shoes of Gian Piero Gasperini, who has departed for Roma. Juric will be keen to address his team's finishing woes as they prepare for their next match against Parma next week.
Finisce in parità
Spoils are shared in Bergamo @acqua_lete | #AtalantaPisa 1-1 FT #GoAtalantaGo pic.twitter.com/AsUkUas0sV
— Atalanta B.C. (@Atalanta_BC) August 24, 2025
Pisa's performance in this match is particularly noteworthy as it marks their return to Serie A after a lengthy absence. The club last played in Italy's top flight 34 years and 90 days ago, suffering a 1-0 defeat to Roma in May 1991. Despite facing considerable pressure from Atalanta, Pisa showcased resilience and determination, securing a valuable point on their comeback.
While Pisa's coach, Alberto Gilardino, can be proud of his team's efforts, Atalanta will need to address their attacking concerns. The absence of Lookman, coupled with Mateo Retegui's departure to the Saudi Pro League, has left a void in their attacking options. The onus now falls on Scamacca to lead the line and provide the firepower needed to secure victories. In this match, Scamacca demonstrated his potential, registering a game-leading seven shots and having 11 touches inside Pisa's box, but he was unable to add to his goal tally.
Looking ahead, Juric will be eager to integrate new players and refine his tactical approach to unlock Atalanta's attacking potential. With a Champions League campaign on the horizon, the team needs to find consistency and ruthlessness in front of goal if they are to compete on both domestic and European fronts. The match against Parma next week presents an opportunity for Atalanta to bounce back and demonstrate their true quality.
The match statistics highlight Atalanta's dominance in terms of possession and chances created, but ultimately, their inability to convert those chances into goals proved to be their downfall. Pisa, on the other hand, displayed a well-organized defensive structure and capitalized on their opportunities, earning a hard-fought draw. This result will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they embark on their Serie A journey.
For Atalanta, this draw serves as a wake-up call, reminding them of the challenges that lie ahead in a competitive Serie A landscape. Juric will need to instill a sense of urgency and precision in his team's attacking play if they are to achieve their goals this season. The fans will be hoping for a more clinical performance in the upcoming matches as Atalanta aims to climb up the league table and make a significant impact in the Champions League.