Atalanta and Sporting CP secure Europa League knockout berth with 1-1 draw

Atalanta and Sporting CP have clinched their spots in the UEFA Europa League knockout stages following a 1-1 draw in Thursday night’s match. Atalanta leads Group D with 11 points, while Sporting sits in second place with eight points, and both teams have one more game left in the group stage.

The game witnessed Atalanta taking an early lead as Gianluca Scamacca found the net in the 23rd minute, assisted by Teun Koopmeiners. Sporting responded with an equalizer in the 56th minute, with Marcus Edwards scoring from Viktor Gyökeres’ assist. Despite both teams having chances to secure a victory, the match concluded in a draw.

This result holds significant importance for both clubs as Atalanta remains undefeated in five group games, and Sporting, with two draws, two wins, and one loss, can afford to rest key players in the final group game in two weeks.

Atalanta’s upcoming match will be against Rakow Czestochowa, while Sporting will conclude their group campaign at home against Sturm Graz. With their places secured, both teams can now focus on planning for the knockout rounds when the competition resumes in 2024.