GASPERINI: "I'M REALLY HAPPY"
Atalanta's coach Gian Piero Gasperini spoke in his post-match press conference following the 3-0 way win against Shakhtar Donetsk. The Nerazzurri have qualified fot the UEFA Champions League 2019/2020 Round of 16.
“It was hard-fought and very difficult in the first half, as we had some very good chances and failed to take them. Then Shakhtar created their opportunities too, as they have a lot of quality and pace, but fortunately it went well. I am very happy for the lads, for the approach they took. We knew that if we reached the final half-hour and were still in the game, we could do it. The team is completely different compared to the first match, we improved in every area.”
“We then drew with Manchester City, the team was clearly improving. We felt the fact Shakhtar scored to make it 3-3 with Zagreb at the 98th minute was a sign of destiny. Of course, Manchester City’s result this evening in Zagreb was also very important.”
"Atalanta have been nowhere near full strength throughout this group stage, missing Duvan Zapata for months, while this evening they were without Josip Ilicic and Rafael Toloi too."
“This was a victory of the Atalanta team in total. We can miss important players, but retain this belief in ourselves, this quality in our approach. We are solid, no matter what happens."
(Photo Getty Images)
