Serie A: Atalanta 2-1 Sassuolo LIVE REPORT AND PHOTOS

Atalanta secured a 2-1 victory over Sassuolo in their opening Serie A match, with Mateo Retegui scoring the decisive goal in the 65th minute. Earlier, Sassuolo had found an equalizer in the 55th minute via Marvin Odenthal, after Atalanta had taken an initial lead through Giacomo Raspadori in the 6th minute.

The match was preceded by significant lineup concerns for both sides. Atalanta's defensive options were depleted following their Conference League playoff match, with Thomas Kristensen joining Giorgio Scalvini on the sidelines due to an ankle injury. Sead Kolašinac was expected to partner Odilon Kossounou in central defense.

Sassuolo's coach, Alberto Aquilani, also faced selection dilemmas. Domenico Berardi's recovery from an ankle issue made his participation uncertain. Furthermore, potential transfers for players like Andrea Pinamonti and Kristian Thorstvedt meant they were unlikely to be included in the squad. The team's attacking trio was expected to feature Armanelli, Volpato, and Laurienté.

The game marked Aquilani's debut as a Serie A head coach. Despite the challenges, the match provided an early indication of the teams' form and resilience as the Italian league season commenced.