Hapoel Tel Aviv Faces Atalanta in Conference League Playoff Amid Pro-Palestinian Protests in Italy

After advancing through two qualifying rounds against Ludogorets and Katowice, Hapoel Tel Aviv is set to face a tougher challenge tonight in Bergamo against Italian side Atalanta in the Conference League playoff. The Israeli club aims to create a major upset in Italy, with 1,500 Hapoel fans having quickly purchased their allocated seats at Atleti Azzurri d'Italia stadium. Atalanta, a team accustomed to Champions League competition in recent years, finished seventh in Serie A last season.

Hapoel coach Aliniv Breda acknowledged the difficulty ahead, noting Atalanta as a favorite to win the tournament and praising their coach, Maurizio Sarri. Breda said, "We are aware of the level differences but will play without inferiority complex and give our best. We have a high mountain to climb." He also dismissed political protests, emphasizing football as a unifying experience and rejecting political demonstrations at the match.

Local police banned Palestinian flags at the stadium, despite planned pro-Palestinian protests outside, where activists displayed slogans like "Boycott Israel" on the stadium walls. Sarri confirmed Atalanta will miss two key players, Charles De Ketelaere and Onesto Ahnor, due to injuries. He described Hapoel as a stronger opponent than expected, highlighting their technical midfield and fitness.

Meanwhile, Hapoel Tel Aviv is still looking to strengthen its squad before the transfer window closes, but contrary to Cypriot media reports, there has been no progress in signing Israeli defender Yahav Gurfinkel from AEK Larnaca. A decision on this will be made after the Bergamo match.