Romano Schmid scored twice for Frosinone, while Nikola Krstović also struck twice for Atalanta. Ederson converted a penalty and Eljif Elmas scored for the hosts; Giacomo Calò and Terzić completed Frosinone’s four-goal return.
“We are disappointed because this was a difficult match for a whole series of reasons,” Atalanta coach Maurizio Sarri said. “It was difficult anyway because they play dynamic football, and then we gave away a goal after 40 seconds. The team reacted soon afterwards.
“At 4-3, with a little more clarity, we could have finished it on the counter-attacks. I expected more from the substitutes. Given the moment we are going through, this is not a performance to throw away. I understand the supporters’ disappointment, because we are disappointed too.”
Sarri said injuries complicated matters, but praised his side’s fighting spirit.
“I see the team in a good place. We have a huge number of injured players and struggle to solve certain problems. But a team that does not surrender and continues to fight does not seem to me to need reprimanding. We have to resolve those problems.”
“We were in a very open game where either side could have won. We have to look at the goals we conceded: the first two were gifts, clear mistakes.”
Frosinone coach Massimiliano Alvini celebrated his side’s response and the support of travelling fans.
“The equaliser at 4-4 was a great release, and that celebration was dedicated to those who came here from Frosinone,” he said. “To come here and compete on equal terms, score four goals and still not win because of mistakes is a source of regret. We came here determined, and that is the most important thing.”
Alvini accepted that defensive management had cost his side.
“The fourth Atalanta goal came from losing the ball in midfield. That was a serious mistake in managing possession. We were level with Atalanta in terms of possession, but we could have managed the marking better for their third goal.
“Accepting one-against-one situations is a big ask for my players, so I can congratulate them. The path towards survival is the right one.”
Alvini stressed that collective identity mattered more than the formation.
“Everyone is important. The priority is the team, and everyone must be ready to help. Everyone defends and everyone attacks. What matters is having an identity: attacking together and defending together. There will be moments when you suffer, whether you play with three or four at the back, but identity is what counts.”