Hapoel Tel Aviv Coaches Show Confidence Ahead of Tough Atalanta Conference League Clash

Hapoel Tel Aviv is set to face Atalanta in the Conference League playoff on Thursday, with coaches Aloniv Breda and Omri Altman speaking to the media in Italy ahead of the match. Breda acknowledged the significant gap between the teams, praising Atalanta as one of the strongest clubs in Europe and expressing respect for their coach, Maurizio Sarri. He highlighted the honor of Sarri's compliments and emphasized the club's ambition to progress despite the challenge, stating, "We understand the differences but come with great belief."

Breda also addressed recent pro-Palestinian protests, asserting that football should unite people and that the team intends to focus solely on the sport. He refrained from revealing Hapoel's strengths but noted Atalanta's quality across the field, stressing the need for thorough preparation. Altman echoed the sentiment, describing Atalanta as probably the strongest team in the competition and expressing confidence in Hapoel's collective effort to advance. He promised a strong atmosphere in Hungary, likening it to playing at home in Tel Aviv.

Both coaches emphasized the challenge ahead, with Breda recalling the club's memorable 2002 campaign as a source of pride and motivation. They acknowledged the high hurdle but remain optimistic about their chances, underscoring the importance of teamwork and determination. Altman dismissed political demonstrations as irrelevant distractions, reaffirming the team's focus on football as a unifying experience.

The match represents a significant test for Hapoel Tel Aviv against a top Serie A side, with the team aiming to build on their recent performances and make a historic impact in European competition.