This archive report was first published on 18 December 2021.
On a remarkable counter-attacking display, AS Roma climbed to fifth place in Serie A with a 4-1 win over Atalanta in Bergamo on December 18, 2021.
Despite holding only 29% possession and eight shots to Atalanta's 17, Roma's efficiency with their chances proved decisive.
"Yes, I think so," Jose Mourinho told DAZN when asked if it was the best Roma have played this season. "We showed fantastic spirit. The players knew that we couldn't be in control for 90 minutes against Atalanta. They were strong in every perspective."
England striker Tammy Abraham opened the scoring with a deflected strike in the opening minute, and Nicolo Zaniolo doubled Roma's lead with his first league goal of the season.
Atalanta's Luis Muriel brought the hosts back into the match with an own goal, but Roma scored a third when Chris Smalling volleyed home his second goal in two games, marking the first time in Serie A history that two different English players have scored in the same game.
Abraham sealed the win with his second goal eight minutes from time, taking his tally for the season to six goals in Serie A.
