Sarri demands more 'courage' from Atalanta after 0-0 draw vs Hapoel Tel Aviv
Quick summary
Maurizio Sarri called for Atalanta to show more courage after their goalless draw against Hapoel Tel Aviv in the UEFA Conference League.
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Attributed to original sourceAtalanta coach Maurizio Sarri admits that a 0-0 draw against Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Conference League play-off was ‘not positive’ and feels his players should have shown ‘more courage’ in attack.
Atalanta were held to a 0-0 home draw by Hapoel Tel Aviv on Thursday in the first leg of the Conference League play-off.
Atalanta 0-0 Hapoel Tel Aviv – Sarri’s post-match interview “If you examine the result, it is clearly not positive, but I’m satisfied with the performance,” Sarri said at a post-match press conference via TMW.
“The team was tidy, but in attack we tend to overthink, which slows things down. We tried to take initiative from the wings, but we didn’t manage to be dangerous. I see a lot of positives even if I’m aware of difficulties. Then we are talking about a team that had eight players at the World Cup and returned later on. There are difficulties, but also positive aspects.”
Italy international Giorgio Scalvini was subbed off early in the first half due to an ankle injury.
“Giorgio has a swollen ankle; we’ll see tomorrow. In midfield, I’m pleased with Gaetano, who put in a good performance,” Sarri said.
“Ederson needs to be more disciplined, although he is fundamental, and Samardzic took the initiative for 60 minutes. I’m more concerned about the attacking moves down the flanks. That’s an area we definitely need to improve. However, I’m convinced that we are a solid team.”
Sarri was asked for his thoughts on the performance of Italy international Giacomo Raspadori, who started the game on the left wing.
“I expected more from both him and Zalewski, perhaps more courage with the ball at their feet,” the coach admitted.
BERGAMO, ITALY – AUGUST 20: Giacomo Raspadori of Atalanta BC competes for the ball with Mor Buskila and Shahar Piven of Hapoel Tel Aviv during the UEFA Conference League 2026/27 Play Off Round First Leg match between Atalanta BC v Hapoel Tel Aviv at Gewiss Stadium on August 20, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images) Thomas Kristensen made his competitive debut for Atalanta when he replaced Scalvini in the 26th minute. Kristensen is one of Atalanta’s new summer signings, having joined La Dea from Udinese just a few weeks ago.
“He has trained with us a few times,” Sarri noted.
“Individually, he played very well, even if he still has some areas to improve tactically.”
Lastly, Sarri was asked whether the team needs further reinforcements before the end of the summer transfer window on September 1.
“The sporting director should answer this,” he concluded.
“If I reply, I’d disrespect some of my players, and I don’t want to do it.”
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What happened
Atalanta were held to a 0-0 draw by Hapoel Tel Aviv in UEFA Conference League action, prompting criticism from Maurizio Sarri. The Lazio coach — whose side is also involved in European competition — demanded more courage and attacking intent from Atalanta going forward. The result leaves Atalanta needing improvement to secure progression in the tournament.
Chance analysis
A stalemate in Europe is rarely celebrated at Atalanta, a club built on proactive, high-tempo football. Sarri's pointed critique underscores a broader concern that Atalanta's European performances have lacked the assertiveness that defines their domestic identity. The draw raises questions about squad rotation, tactical setup, and whether Atalanta can rediscover their cutting edge in the knockout phase.
Atalanta's failure to beat Hapoel Tel Aviv combined with Sarri's public criticism increases pressure on the team and signals potential vulnerabilities in their European campaign.