Analysis The numbers behind the result
Atalanta edge low-quality Conference League playoff
Atalanta's 1-0 win was narrow but deserved in a match where neither side created high-quality chances. The visitors marginally outshot Hapoel Tel Aviv 14-11, with Scamacca's 72nd-minute strike the decisive moment. Possession was evenly split (50% each), but Atalanta's slightly superior shot selection (6/14 inside the box vs 8/11 for Hapoel) proved pivotal.
Defensive discipline told the story, with five blocked shots apiece and just seven combined shots on target (Atalanta 4, Hapoel 3). Hapoel's higher corner count (7-6) failed to translate into clear chances, while their five yellow cards to Atalanta's none reflected a lack of attacking composure. The Israeli side's frequent substitutions (five to Atalanta's four) disrupted their rhythm without altering the pattern of play.
The xG-less data suggests a game decided by fine margins, with Atalanta's slightly superior defensive organisation (0 yellow cards to Hapoel's five) allowing them to control the tempo after Scamacca's goal. The 14-11 shot count in Atalanta's favour, despite equal possession, underscores their slightly more efficient chance creation.