Atalanta concluded their first Conference League match with a convincing 3‑1 against Pafos, proving they can compete at European level and dispelling the criticism that had been circulating before the break. Maurizio Sarri, who led the team in a dominant move, praised the performance but also expressed frustration over the injury to Raspadori, who stopped in the 20th minute due to a muscle strain.
The match was decided from the first half. Elmas scored in 50 seconds, taking advantage of a pass from Raspadori and support from Scamacca, who created the necessary space. The second goal came in the 18th minute: Zalewski got a penalty after good progression into the area, and Raspadori coolly converted. Just before half-time, Scamacca added a third goal, completing a dominant first half. In the restart Atalanta maintained control, allowing Zalewski and De Ketelaere to come close to scoring, but without managing to find the net. The Pafos goal, scored by Biel, was the only surprise shot of the evening, but it did not change the outcome of the match.
Sarri commented on the victory, stating that the team entered the pitch well and exploited the opportunities more efficiently than in the previous match against Venezia. He underlined that the team has demonstrated a good balance between attack and defense, but that it is necessary to find even more solidity. Regarding Raspadori's injury, Sarri expressed frustration at the frequency of injuries, especially after internationals, and criticized the lack of intervention by the Footballers' Association.
Raspadori's injury, which will undergo further tests, will exclude him from the away match against Milan, which will take place on Sunday at the San Siro. Atalanta, despite having obtained a positive result, will have to manage their strength for the next championship match. Sarri closed the post-match by recalling that the calendar is "absurd" and that the players are exposed to greater risks, especially after the national teams. With victory in hand, Atalanta prepares to continue its run in Europe, looking to consolidate its form and protect key players for the upcoming matches.