Gasperini Addresses the Penalty Incident
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini has acknowledged that the infamous penalty incident, which cost his team a 2-1 defeat in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off against Club Brugge, has been extensively discussed. "Everyone knows what happened, but it’s time to move forward," Gasperini stated. The team will host Club Brugge at the Gewiss Stadium for the second leg, and the focus is now on delivering a stronger performance. Gasperini emphasized that the team must play "better" to stand a chance of progressing to the last 16. The coach is pragmatic about the need to look ahead and ensure that his team is ready for the challenge ahead.
Squad Updates: Lookman and Kolasinac Return, Hien Out
In a pre-match press conference, Gasperini confirmed that Ademola Lookman and Sead Kolasinac are back in the squad after recovering from their injuries. "Lookman and Kolasinac have recovered, and they are called up," he revealed. Kolasinac is expected to start, while Lookman might come in during the second half, adding depth and versatility to the team. However, the coach also shared some concerning news about Isak Hien, who is likely to miss the match due to an adductor problem. "We will probably lose Hien. Today we did a final training session, and he felt some fatigue in his adductor," Gasperini noted. The team will need to adapt to these changes and ensure that they are prepared for the tactical demands of the match.
The Need for an Excellent Display
Gasperini stressed the importance of an "excellent" display from his team in the second leg. "The team played a bit halfway in the first leg, which caused us a few more problems," he admitted. "We need to play a better game; in the second half, we had chances to take the lead. Overall, we need to play a game that is two steps better." The coach emphasized that the team must be more cohesive and focused, particularly in the defensive and transitional phases of the game. This will be crucial in counteracting Club Brugge’s attacking threats and creating the opportunities needed to secure a positive result.
Home Advantage at the Gewiss Stadium
Playing at the Gewiss Stadium, in front of their passionate home fans, can be a significant advantage for Atalanta. "Everything is important, it has an impact and can be decisive in many aspects, but we need to play an excellent match," Gasperini remarked. The home crowd’s support can provide the extra motivation and energy needed to push the team over the line. However, the coach is clear that the onus is on the players to deliver a high-quality performance. "It’s a game that will last 90 minutes, we will need to adapt and create opportunities. We are playing against a team that requires maximum concentration," he added. The home advantage must be leveraged effectively to maximize the team’s chances of success.
Adapting to Club Brugge’s Style
Club Brugge has left a lasting impression on Gasperini, who noted the versatility and potential of the Belgian side. "Against City, I saw a very versatile team, they have young players who turn the play around," he observed. The Atalanta coach is well aware of the challenges his team will face. "They made a great impression on me. To get through this round, we need to play a good match in every aspect," he stated. The team must be prepared for a fast-paced and tactical battle, staying alert and adaptable throughout the match. The key will be to maintain a high level of concentration and execution, both defensively and offensively, to neutralize Club Brugge’s strengths and capitalize on their weaknesses.
Moving Forward from the First Leg
Despite the painful loss in the first leg, Gasperini is focused on the tasks at hand. "We’ve already said everything about the penalty in the first leg, the result is what it is, and we have to try to win the game," he said. The outcome of the first leg is well-documented, but the coach is determined to ensure that his team does not dwell on past events. Instead, the focus is on the present and the future. "What happened in the first leg, in terms of the result, has been well documented. We won’t focus on that aspect," Gasperini concluded. The team must channel their energy into delivering a strong and cohesive performance, demonstrating the resilience and determination that have become hallmarks of Atalanta’s playing style.
