Atalanta started their Conference League campaign with a solid result: 3‑1 against Pafos, played at the NewBalance Arena. The opening goal arrived within a minute thanks to the invention of Raspadori, who then doubled the lead from the spot in the 18th minute before being forced to leave the field due to an injury. The third goal was scored by Scamacca in the 44th minute, with an assist from DeKetelaere. In the second half, DeAzevedo's team managed the match calmly, touching the post several times, and concluded the match with a goal from Biel at the end of regulation time, thus guaranteeing the three points and an immediate European start.
After the match, midfielder EljifElmas spoke to Sky Sport, underlining the importance of starting well in this competition. He recalled his experience with Napoli, where he had scored 13 seconds into the game against Spartak Moscow, and explained that the speed of his goal against Pafos was the result of a well-orchestrated move. “When you score so quickly, you unlock the game and everything becomes easier,” he said, adding that the team had respect for their opponent, given that they had played in the Champions League this year.
Elmas then commented on the situation of his teammate Raspadori, who was injured during the match. “I feel very sorry for him,” she said, “and we hope he comes back as soon as possible.” He reiterated that, despite the injury, the team is happy to have taken the three points and to have started the campaign well. The interview also highlighted the team's mentality: "We have to see, we play every week and it's not easy, but we have to think game after game. Of course that's our goal, but we'll see little by little."
With the positive trend, Atalanta is preparing for the next match, scheduled for Thursday at 9pm against Ajax in Amsterdam. The result against Pafos consolidated the team's position in the group stage, while the hope of Raspadori's quick return remains a priority for Dea, especially considering the injury situation the team is facing. The club aims to maintain the winning streak, aiming to continue with the same intensity in the next European matches.