Atalanta opened their adventure in the UEFA Conference League with a convincing 3-1 victory over Pafos, immediately demonstrating that they are a team to take into consideration. Coach Maurizio Sarri led the Nerazzurri in a high-level match, obtaining a complete result and leaving the club confident of a good position in the group stage.
The match started with a rapid pace from Atalanta, who adopted a 4‑2‑3‑1 formation. Midfielder Scamacca was the first to score, immediately in the 1st minute, with a precise shot that put the team ahead. In the first half, Elmas extended their superiority with a goal in the 18th minute, followed by a penalty converted by Raspadori in the 44th minute. Raspadori's goal, however, was preceded by a muscle problem that forced him to leave the field shortly after. Sarri immediately inserted De Ketelaere in his place, keeping the pressure on the opponent.
Pafos attempted to turn the game around, but failed to find the goal. The only attempt came in the 88th minute when Biel scored a comeback goal, but the three-goal difference guaranteed the victory for the Nerazzurri. Atalanta showed a solid defense, thanks above all to Majecki, who made numerous decisive saves, including a crucial save in the 24th minute when Biel had the opportunity to cancel out the goal.
During the second half, Atalanta continued to dominate the game, with numerous scoring opportunities which however did not materialize. Scamacca had two shot attempts from outside the area, both blocked by Majecki, while De Ketelaere had two headed chances. Pafos' goal, scored by Biel in the 88th minute, was the closest result to a possible turnaround. However, the Cypriot team failed to take advantage of the opportunities created.
With this victory, Atalanta positions itself at the top of its Conference League group, with a three-point advantage over the second-placed team. Sarri expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, underlining the importance of a solid start to the European competition. Atalanta will continue to focus on an offensive game and a compact defense, with the aim of maintaining leadership in the group and continuing successfully in the direct elimination phase.