Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini is delighted to have reached the Europa League quarterfinals.

The 1-0 triumph at Bayer Leverkusen saw La Dea win the round 16 tie 4-2 on aggregate.

“It's very satisfying to reach the quarter-finals. We struggled a little in the second half, but overall qualified deservedly," Gasperini told Sky Italia.

“Now we wait for the draw, but first we enjoy this evening. We could've done better, but we showed important values that are needed at this level too.

“I congratulated Gerardo Seoane, as he is getting the best out of a squad with lots of young talents. We are happy to have qualified, but it was really tough."

On matchwinner Jeremie Boga, he continued: “Boga has these characteristics and we hope this goal can give him the confidence boost he needs for the rest of the season."

Merih Demiral was outstanding at the back and Gasperini concluded: “Demiral has this physicality and is really strong in the air, but he's also working hard and if he manages to become more of an athlete via training, he can improve a great deal. We are very happy with his performance."