Hapoel Tel Aviv Threatens Italian Clubs’ Champions League Hopes with Atalanta Draw
Hapoel Tel Aviv secured an impressive 0-0 draw against Atalanta in Bergamo on August 20, 2026, putting them just 90 minutes away from a historic qualification to the group stage of the UEFA Europa Conference League. Atalanta, currently the highest-ranked team in the Conference League and the first Italian club to start European competition this season, was considered a strong favorite to win the tournament.
Atalanta’s potential elimination by Hapoel Tel Aviv would significantly damage the Italian league’s efforts to secure a fifth Champions League spot. This is because Atalanta’s expected high points tally from progressing deep into the Conference League would contribute to Serie A’s UEFA coefficient, which influences the number of Champions League places allocated to the league.
Currently, Inter Milan, Roma, Napoli, and Como are competing in the Champions League, while Juventus and AC Milan are in the Europa League. Atalanta’s early exit would reduce Serie A’s coefficient points, weakening their position against rival leagues in the race for additional Champions League berths. Hapoel Tel Aviv’s strong performance thus poses a notable challenge to Italian clubs’ European ambitions this season.
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