Hapoel Tel Aviv Could Jeopardize Italian Clubs’ Champions League Chances by Eliminating Atalanta
Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a notable 0-0 draw against Atalanta in Bergamo on August 20, 2026, bringing 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 begin European competition this season, was also a favorite to win the tournament.
Atalanta’s potential elimination by Hapoel Tel Aviv would significantly impact Italian football’s efforts to secure a fifth Champions League spot. This is because Atalanta’s expected accumulation of points from progressing in the Conference League would contribute to Italy’s UEFA coefficient, which influences the number of Champions League berths allocated to Serie A.
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 exit would reduce Italy’s coefficient points, weakening their position against rival leagues in the race for an additional Champions League qualification slot. Hapoel Tel Aviv’s impressive performance thus poses a major challenge to Italian clubs’ European ambitions this season.
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