Napoli Player Ratings vs Atalanta: Osimhen Settles “Nigerian Derby”

In a battle between the Serie A leaders and their closest chasers, two Nigerian forwards took centre stage. But while Ademola Lookman gave Atalanta the lead with an absolutely unstoppable spot kick, it was Victor Osimhen who came out on top by the end of the day. The Napoli striker inspired a comeback by nodding home the equalizer before providing the assist for Eljif Elmas’ winner. So check out our ratings for Napoli players who have just opened an eight-point gap on top of the table following their invaluable away victory over Atalanta.

Napoli (4-3-3)

Alex Meret – 6.5

The Italian custodian pulled off a strong save to deny Hojlund early in the match, but was left with absolutely no chance on Lookman’s magnificent penalty kick.

Giovanni Di Lorenzo – 5.5

The Napoli captain is one of the best fullbacks in the business, but he didn’t truly prove his prowess against Atalanta. Allowed Maehle too much space to dart forward at times, while he didn’t contribute with anything noteworthy on his team’s attacks.

Kim Min-jae – 6.5

The Korean had a tough mission against the vibrant Lookman, but produced a decent display in general.

Juan Jesus – 6

The Brazilian lost an early sprint against Hojlund which could have cost his side dearly, but swiftly regained his composure and looked solid afterwards.

Mathias Oliveira – 6

The Uruguayan had the better of Hans Hateboer in their personal duel. His outing was mostly tactical rather than spectacular.

André-Frank Zambo Anguissa – 7

The Cameroonian was industrious as ever in the middle of the park. Ran his socks off while chasing the ball, and instigated the winner when he teed up Osimhen with a smart through ball.

Stanislav Lobotka – 7

The former Celta Vigo man uncharacteristically lost possession in a deep area early in the match, but luckily for him he was spared the blushes. Aside from that blunder, it was another lovely display from the Azzurri’s commander-in-chief.

Piotr Zielinski – 6

It wasn’t exactly the most fascinating performance from the Polish midfielder who never truly found his footing during the match. He was eventually replaced by Ndombele, but still provided a sublime assist for Osimhen.

Hirving Lozano – 5.5

The Mexican tried to make something with his direct runs, but the Atalanta defenders easily dealt with him. His display simply lacked flair.

Victor Osimhen – 8

After giving away a spot kick due to a hand ball, the former Lille striker atoned for his mistake by dragging Napoli back to the match with a swift equalizer, before setting up the winner. The Nigerian was embroiled in a tense duel against Demiral, and he had the last laugh.

Eljif Elmas – 7

The Macedonian got the nod due to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s injury, and proved to be worthy of the opportunity by scoring the all-important winner. Created a great chance for Simeone in the second half.

Check Out our Ratings for Atalanta Players

Napoli Substitutes

Matteo Politano – 6

The Italian replaced the ineffective Lozano on the right. Although he didn’t create much, at least he managed to hold the ball when Napoli only wanted to run the clock.

Tanguy Ndombele – 6.5

The France international reenergized the middle of the park following his introduction and displayed flashes of brilliance with some stunning dribbling.

Giovanni Simeone – 6

The Argentine showcased the usual determination and hunger for goal, but will be disappointing with himself after wasting a decent opportunity to score.

Gianluca Gaetano – N/A

Alessio Zerbin – N/A

Follow us on Google News for more updates on Serie A and Italian football