Krstović Inspires Atalanta to Vital 3-1 Victory Over Struggling Venezia

Atalanta halted their three-match losing streak with a commanding 3-1 victory over Venezia on Sunday, easing the pressure on under-fire manager Maurizio Sarri.

The hosts enjoyed an explosive start at the Gewiss Stadium, breaching Venezia's defense twice in the opening six minutes. Franck Kessié opened the scoring in the fourth minute, marking his first goal since returning to Serie A by deftly chipping the keeper after a brilliant pass from Nikola Krstović. Just two minutes later, Krstović turned goalscorer, nodding home a precise corner to make it 2-0.

The dominant Montenegrin striker struck again in the 30th minute, capitalizing on a goalkeeper spill to extend the lead to 3-0. Venezia managed a lifeline before halftime when Antoine Hainaut swept home a Richie Sagrado cross in the 36th minute.

Despite a quieter second half, the match ended with late drama for Atalanta. Substitutes Raoul Bellanova and Giorgio Scalvini both limped off with muscle injuries, and midfielder Eljif Elmas was sent off in the 89th minute for a reckless tackle.

The crucial three points offer Sarri a tactical breakthrough, while winless Venezia remains rooted to the bottom of the Serie A table.