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Atalanta coach Gasperini full of pride reaching Champions League knockouts

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini was full of pride after victory at Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Oribici are into the Champions League knockouts after a stunning 3-0 win at Shakhtar Donetsk. Timothy Castagne, Mario Pasalic and Robin Gosens struck the goals.

Gasperini said, "This was a victory of the Atalanta team in total. We can miss important players, but retain this belief in ourselves, this quality in our approach. We are solid, no matter what happens.

“I can also explain that Simon Kjaer was not injured, the only reason he didn't come today was my decision. He's an excellent player, but struggles to interpret our style of football. He has other characteristics and I tried him out, but was not convinced.

“I chose Ibanez to come off the bench because I had no other options, but he did well, apart from an initial wobble."

Asked about the draw, Gasperini admits he wasn't bothered.

“They're all so strong, it doesn't matter who we are up against. We can't pick Juventus or Manchester City, and the others are all excellent too.

“Honestly, we are just happy to be here and hope to take our fans to a beautiful city for the away game."

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