SSC Napoli lost further ground in the Serie A title race as Atalanta BC came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory, extending La Dea’s unbeaten league run to nine matches (W7, D2).

After a cautious opening, it was the visitors who struck first in the 18th minute, capitalising on slack marking inside the Atalanta penalty area. A perfectly delivered free-kick from Miguel Gutierrez picked out an unmarked Sam Beukema, who calmly converted from close range to register his second Serie A goal of the season.

Atalanta responded positively and nearly levelled after 35 minutes when Vanja Milinković-Savić produced a sharp save at his near post to deny Kamaldeen Sulemana.

There was late first-half drama when Napoli were awarded a penalty after referee Daniele Chiffi ruled that Isak Hien had fouled Rasmus Højlund. However, following a VAR review, Chiffi overturned his decision, much to the relief of the home supporters.

The second half began in equally dramatic fashion. Just 23 seconds after the restart, Gutierrez appeared to double Napoli’s lead, but celebrations were cut short as the goal was disallowed for a foul by Højlund in the build-up.

That moment proved pivotal. Atalanta drew level shortly after the hour mark from a set-piece of their own. Nicola Zalewski’s inviting corner was met by a glancing header from Croatia international Mario Pašalić, whose effort had just enough power to beat Milinković-Savić.

The equaliser sparked renewed belief in the hosts, and they pushed forward in search of a winner. Milinković-Savić was called into action again midway through the half, making an important stop to keep out Gianluca Scamacca.

Persistent pressure finally paid off with less than 10 minutes remaining. Lazar Samardzic rose highest to meet Lorenzo Bernasconi’s cross, guiding a superb header into the bottom corner to seal a memorable comeback victory for the Nerazzurri.

The win keeps Atalanta seventh in Serie A as they now turn their focus to the UEFA Champions League, where they host Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday with a place in the Round of 16 on the line.

Meanwhile, third-placed Napoli will aim to revive their fading title hopes next weekend when they travel to face relegation-threatened Hellas Verona FC.