Hapoel Tel Aviv Eyes Conference League Group Stage After Draw With Atalanta

Hapoel Tel Aviv expressed cautious optimism following their 0-0 draw against Atalanta on August 20, 2026, in the Conference League playoff round. The club was pleased with the result, especially given Atalanta's stronger reputation, but emphasized that the tie was only halfway through the qualification process. "This is a good away result against a much stronger opponent on paper," club representatives said, "but we still have a full match to play and believe we can reach the Conference League group stage."

The team was confident in their abilities, noting they were not surprised by their performance despite others being caught off guard. Coach Aliniv Breda praised the players but refrained from an overly emotional speech, stating they met expectations. Approximately 1,500 Hapoel fans traveled to Bergamo, making up about one-fifth of the stadium crowd, and their continuous support was credited by players as a motivating factor.

Unlike typical matches, no shirt exchanges occurred between players; instead, the clubs exchanged jerseys due to Atalanta owner Steven Paliuca's personal collection. The club also acknowledged the potential UEFA punishment for flares lit by fans during the game. Hapoel currently holds a conditional sanction from UEFA, which could result in a fan ban for their first away match in the competition if they advance, or for the next European away game if they do not.

Hapoel planned another training session in Italy before returning to Israel, mindful of possible flight delays caused by a strike at Ben Gurion Airport the previous day.