Misery continues for Atlanta after draw with Udinese

MILAN (AP) — Atalanta are taking another blow in their bid to qualify for the Champions League after drawing 0-0 with Udinese in Serie A on Saturday.

Atalanta have won just one win in five games in all competitions – losing four in a row – and the latest disappointment left them sixth in the league, five points behind fourth-placed AC Milan.

Atalanta face leaders Napoli next week and will likely be without midfielder Teun Koopmeiners after he pulled out just before half-time with an apparent hamstring injury.

The home side improved after the break and put pressure on Udinese, but they had very few clean chances on goal.

Udinese goalkeeper Marco Silvestri had to clear a fine try at the last minute to prevent Rafael Tolói from scoring.

FIRST VICTORY

Monza secured their first home win of the year by beating Empoli 2-1.

Patrick Ciurria put Monza ahead in the 19th minute after Andrea Petagna’s backheel, but Martin Satriano – whose first shot was disallowed for offside – equalized with a header early in the second half.

Armando Izzo scored with another header for the win in the 67th minute.

Monza finished tenth, four points ahead of Empoli.