Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini has heaped praise on his side’s performance against Cagliari as La Dea ran out 2-0 victors at Gewiss Stadium this weekend: “We certainly had the best performance of the season.” Goals from Ademola Lookman and Mario Pasalic ensured Atalanta would record back-to-back wins following their Europa League triumph midweek.
Gasperini explained how the players were “buzzing” after their win over Raków Częstochowa as he spoke with DAZN post-match and how that helped them get off to a good start in their league outing. He would go on to talk about Charles De Ketelaere and also touched on how his team can improve:
“First half very good. We certainly had the best performance of the season. The players were buzzing after Thursday’s win. In the second half we dropped, I don’t know if it was due to the heat or the tiredness of the Europa League match, but towards the end we came out again. We missed a few too many passes, but we are a team capable of overcoming difficulties. But certainly the first half leaves me very satisfied.”
“Having Europe globally gives you more than it takes away. In the championship you then see the growth. Gain experience against teams that play differently, with different pace and intensity. Obviously there is the risk that you will take something away due to injuries. This championship seems very balanced to me. In every match, if you are not at your best, you risk not doing well. There are teams that are going strong”.
“De Ketelaere played a truly excellent first half. Very few errors, quality and clarity, a reference for attacking play. The assist on the goal was also valuable.”