Quote from: Furious 7 on May 29, 2024, 09:59:28 PM

This was due to Gasperini's foresight in managing the scheme of things.
We can see the smart move Gasperini made in the final match where Xabi who implemented a man to man marking scheme with a high level of press was actually used as an advantage by Gasperini who did a long pass as his main strategy. As a result, some long passes and direct passes on quick counter-attacks were an advantage for Atalanta who made the difference and the score was quite striking in the final match.

In addition, after falling behind by 2 goals Leverkusen actually increased the intensity of the attack so that this actually became a good momentum for Atalanta in playing more defensively and relying on counterattacks so that in this case in my opinion Leverkusen did not not play like in the final but they actually lost before fighting because Xabi'strategy could all be read by Gasperini who could indeed counter it well.

The disappointment of losing the Europa League final and ending their unbeaten record in such a manner is unpleasant for Leverkusen. Not being able to grab the UEL trophy and at thesame time conceding three goals without a goal in return only makes the talk of the defeat wild. The final goal to conclude the loss scored in the dire minute of the game and at a crucial time of the season for Leverkusen only increases the level of disappointment and will be a definite reoccurrence in the mind of the team as a whole.

Despite the huge loss, Leverkusen's overall season performance remains remarkable. Even having failed in the final, their achievements throughout the season shouldn't be looked away. However, the game of two nights ago gives them the importance of addressing weaknesses and staying vigilant, as other teams will undoubtedly take note of Atalanta's successful tactics and seek to exploit Leverkusen's vulnerabilities in future encounters. This loss serves as a learning experience, motivating Leverkusen to regroup, refine their strategies, and strive for even greater success in the seasons to come.

It's definitely a huge lesson to be learnt by the German side. Really they were put at a spot they shouldn't have been so vulnerable to be and at thesame time Atalanta used that game to gain victory and confidence. The German side are hardworking no doubt and I personally still have a good level of conviction in them. They should learn from the mistakes of the loss, remarkable feat they've attained. It's safe to commend them greatly. Both teams literally deserves good commendation.