Celtic returned from Bergamo with a vital point in the Champions League after holding Atalanta to a 0-0 draw, a result that has drawn significant attention from the Italian press.
Brendan Rodgers’ tactical acumen was on full display as his side executed a disciplined and resilient performance, keeping the Serie A outfit at bay in a game that tested the Scottish champions to their limits.
Auston Trusty was singled out for praise by the travelling Celtic support for his impressive contribution at the back, but this was a team effort from Rodgers’ men, with every player rising to the occasion.
The Bhoys earned a well-fought draw, frustrating Atalanta throughout the 90 minutes at the Gewiss Stadium and bringing home a valuable away point in their quest to advance from the group stage.
While the Celtic faithful celebrate their side’s defiant showing, the reaction in Italy has been notably more critical of the hosts.
Despite dominating possession and piling on the pressure, Atalanta failed to break down the visitors – and the local media have not held back in their assessments.
Celtic ‘Haunt’ Atalanta in Draw That ‘Hurts More than Arsenal’:
The Italian press lamented what they saw as an opportunity wasted by the Europa League holders. Celtic’s dogged defensive effort earned them some begrudging praise, but the post-match reaction was steeped in frustration at Atalanta’s inability to capitalise on their dominance.
La Gazzetta dello Sport wrote: “It ends 0-0 between Atalanta and Celtic, leaving a bag full of regrets for the Bergamo team, who commanded the game for the entire ninety minutes and more.
“Gasperini’s side squandered the chance to reach seven points after three rounds in the Champions League, although they remain unbeaten and kept a clean sheet for the second consecutive game.”
Corriere della Sera was more scathing, reflecting on how the failure to secure victory weighed heavily on the hosts:
“A victory thrown to the wind. And the points, lost like that, hurt even more. The four-leaf clover that had brought luck to Atalanta in Dublin turned on them here, leaving Dea blindfolded in front of goal despite 22 attempts, six of which were on target.
“The Scots offered little – only 33% possession and a couple of fleeting moments. This draw stings more than the Arsenal match when Retegui missed a penalty.
“The Champions League continues to haunt the Italians, still goalless in Europe despite six goals in their last four domestic fixtures.”
Atalanta ‘Crash’ into Celtic’s Defensive ‘Wall’:
The Italian media’s frustration with Atalanta’s inability to secure victory continued, with some outlets describing Celtic’s performance as a masterful defensive display that left Gasperini’s side floundering.
Corriere dello Sport noted the contrasting emotions in the stadium at full-time: “What stood out was the final cheer from the Celtic stand – a half-victory for the Scots, while for Atalanta it felt like two points thrown away. Stuttgart, who previously haunted Juventus, could represent a decisive test on the horizon, but the focus now must return to the league.”
Meanwhile, V Sport highlighted how Rodgers’ men thwarted Atalanta’s ambitions:
“Gian Piero Gasperini’s side crashed into the wall built by Celtic in Glasgow, unable to break through for a win. A point that feels like a mockery for Dea, who desperately sought their first home Champions League victory after the 0-3 defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk and the goalless draw with Arteta’s Arsenal.”
Celtic’s Champions League Chances Boosted:
The result has given Celtic more than just a valuable point; it has also bolstered their confidence as they aim to progress beyond the group stage.
The Italian media acknowledged the significance of this result for Rodgers’ team, even if their frustration with Atalanta took centre stage.
With four points from their first three matches, including draws against Atalanta and Arsenal, Celtic’s hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds are very much alive.
The two most challenging fixtures are now behind them, and Rodgers’ side can focus on building momentum in their remaining games.
The psychological boost from this performance cannot be overstated. Celtic have often been criticised for falling short in Europe’s elite competition, but this display has silenced many of their detractors.
Holding a side of Atalanta’s quality to a goalless draw away from home shows that Rodgers’ men have the resilience and tactical discipline to compete at the highest level.
As the Bhoys look ahead to their next European challenge, this result will serve as a springboard. If Celtic can continue to perform with the same resolve, their chances of reaching the next phase of the competition will only increase – and perhaps they will finally leave behind their reputation as Champions League underachievers.