23 November 2019
The players and coach spoke into the microphones after the Bianconeri’s comeback against Atalanta. These are their statements:
MAURIZIO SARRI
"It was a nice match with rhythm and intensity. We lost a bit of rhythm after the penalty, and we weren’t thinking in the right way to play football. Atalanta went deservedly ahead but we were lucky enough to draw, and afterwards, the merit of believing saw us end the game well. The defensive line-up? Our structure was wasteful, and today we suffered with Atalanta’s width.
"It is difficult to dominate here; they make everyone suffer. I confirm what I said yesterday, it's like going to the dentist: maybe you come out well, but you suffer. Cristiano? He made a choice on which I completely agree: to train without overloading the knee and trying to solve this little ailment.”
GONZALO HIGUAIN
"We knew the game was very complicated, because Atalanta is very strong at home. This is a very difficult field to play on and the victory is fundamental to our journey. The performance was done by the team, not the individuals, and it proved a test of maturity. Paulo and I are very happy for the victory and for the goals scored, but also the defence gave so much. Now we rest and recover and concentrate on the Champions League.”
PAULO DYBALA
“We had prepared for this match knowing that it would be difficult. But we know how to understand moments of difficulty. My 200th Serie A appearance? I am thrilled by the path I have taken over the years, I am satisfied with what I am doing, and I am thinking of the next two hundred… We know what Tuesday's appointment means. Atletico will be a battle, but we will be at home, with our audience.”
DYBALA STOPPAGE TIME GOAL
The scoreline was put beyond a doubt when Paulo Dybala turned the ball into the back of the net inside stoppage time. Higuain went from goalscorer to assist-maker when he played a long across the face of goal for his fellow countryman. Dybala then dribbled the ball inside the box before unleashing an effort that beat the goalkeeper at the near post to secure all three points.
