Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini was delighted with their Europa League victory over Hapoel Haifa.

The Oribici beat Hapoel Haifa 2-0 on Thursday night (6-1 on aggregate) to set up a two-legged play-off with Kobenhavn on August 23 and 30.

“Clearly it won't be easy, as next week will be hugely important for the start of our season. We've got Roma and Kobenhavn, so this is the start of the campaign and the results will affect our future path," Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia.

“The lads worked hard and as the game went on, we played better, scoring two goals and using players who hadn't been given other opportunities so far."

Duvan Zapata and substitute Andreas Cornelius scored on the night.

Gasperini added: “Matteo Pessina already had pre-season training with us last season before he went to La Spezia. It's easy for him to get between the lines, he can play in any midfield role and can give us an extra gear in difficult matches.

“Duvan Zapata is gaining confidence and we might need a little more patience for him to reach full fitness, but he has the right mentality.

“Cornelius is really positive and made a big impact even in just a few minutes on the field."