Atalanta's Gian Piero Gasperini Disappointed By Missed Chances In Champions League Draw Against Celtic

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Atalanta's head coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, expressed his frustration after a goalless draw against Celtic in the Champions League. Despite dominating the game with 22 shots and 54 touches in the opposition box, Atalanta couldn't find the net. Mario Pasalic's header hitting the crossbar was their closest attempt. Kasper Schmeichel's impressive saves denied them six times, leaving Gasperini lamenting missed opportunities.

Gasperini shared his thoughts with Sky Sport Italy, stating, "It was a cursed match. We created so many chances, but we just couldn't score." He highlighted their control over Celtic's fast players but acknowledged their lack of precision in crucial moments. "We missed that decisive spark, the shot, the final pass, the winning header," he added.

Pasalic attempted six shots without success, equalling Duvan Zapata's record for most attempts by an Atalanta player without scoring in a Champions League match. Reflecting on this outcome, Pasalic admitted to feeling frustrated but accepted the result. "Unfortunately, we were unable to break the deadlock. We must accept this result, even if it is rather frustrating," he said.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers had reasons to celebrate as his team ended a streak of seven consecutive losses in Italy during European competitions. He praised his players' concentration and courage against one of Italy's top-scoring teams. "The concentration in the game was superb," Rodgers noted.

Rodgers expressed pride in his team's mentality and resilience throughout the match. "I never doubted the players and their mentality. I was so proud of them," he stated. Acknowledging past challenges faced by Scottish teams in Europe, he commended his squad for standing firm against Atalanta.

The match concluded with both teams sharing points after an intense battle at Gewiss Stadium. While Atalanta rued missed chances, Celtic celebrated a hard-earned point away from home.