Hapoel Tel Aviv is set to take on Atalanta in the second leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League playoff at 01:00 on August 28, 2026. The first leg ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw for Atalanta, who struggled to impress their fans with a lackluster performance. Under new coach Maurizio Sarri, the team is still adapting, which has led to concerns about their competitiveness in this tournament.

Historically, Italian clubs have prioritized the Champions League, often fielding weaker squads in lower-tier competitions. While this attitude has improved in recent years, Atalanta may still be focusing more on their Serie A ambitions rather than progressing in the Conference League. The team is still adjusting after the departure of long-time coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who left for Roma in the summer of 2025.

Hapoel Tel Aviv, on the other hand, is eager to make an impact in European competitions, having last reached the group stage of a European tournament 14 years ago during the 2012/13 Europa League season. The team appears to be in good form, having won 5 out of their last 6 matches, which gives them a psychological edge going into this matchup.

Team News

Hapoel Tel Aviv is expected to field their strongest lineup, while Atalanta will be missing several key players due to injuries, including Honest Ahanor, K. Sulemana, Isak Hien, and Elijif Elmas. Notably, two crucial players, striker De Ketelaere and defender Scalvini, will also be sidelined until early September.

Expected Lineups

• Hapoel Tel Aviv (4-2-3-1): Tzur; Coco, Mayembo, Chico, Leidner; Falcao, Kraev; Owusu, Alkoukin, Altman; Boateng.
• Atalanta (4-3-3): Carnesecchi; Bellanova, Kossounou, Scalvini, Bernarsconi; Samardzic, Gaetano, Ederson; Zalewski, Scamacca, Raspadori.

Match Analysis

Atalanta has struggled in recent matches, failing to secure a win in their last seven outings as the favored team. In contrast, Hapoel Tel Aviv has shown determination and resilience, making them a formidable opponent. The first leg's lack of goals indicates that neither team is under significant pressure, which could lead to a similar outcome in the first half of the upcoming match.

Based on current form and the absence of key players for Atalanta, many analysts predict that Hapoel Tel Aviv could secure a positive result, potentially winning the match 2-1. The first half is expected to see a maximum of four corner kicks, reflecting the cautious approach both teams may take.

As the match approaches, fans are eager to see if Hapoel Tel Aviv can capitalize on Atalanta's struggles and advance to the next round of the Europa Conference League.