Italian football has long been synonymous with elite clubs like Inter Milan and Juventus, but the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League campaign has reshaped that narrative. On Tuesday night, as reigning finalists Inter Milan were eliminated by Bodø/Glimt, concerns arose that no Italian club would reach the last 16—a scenario unseen since the 1987–88 European Cup era. Yet, in a remarkable twist, Atalanta preserved Italian pride, emerging as the nation’s last representative in Europe’s premier club competition. Observers now hail the Bergamo side as “Italy’s new favourite.”
Italian Clubs’ Play-Off Journey
Three Italian teams entered the Champions League play-off stage. Inter Milan bowed out after consecutive defeats to Bodø/Glimt, losing 3–1 away and 2–1 at home. The exit of one of Italy’s historically successful clubs sparked debate, with football analyst Vincenzo Credendino describing it as “one of the worst periods for Italian football.”
Juventus, twice Champions League winners, were expected to carry the nation’s hopes. However, a heavy 5–2 defeat to Galatasaray in Istanbul complicated matters. Key players such as Dušan Vlahović and Andrea Cambiaso battled injuries, further challenging Turin’s veteran side. Despite falling behind in the first leg, Juventus mounted a heroic 3–0 victory at home with only ten men after Lloyd Kelly was sent off. The aggregate score was level, but extra time saw Juventus concede twice, ending their campaign prematurely.
Atalanta faced a daunting task against Borussia Dortmund. A 0–2 defeat in Dortmund required a minimum three-goal swing to progress. Few expected success, yet by the 57th minute, Atalanta had scored three goals, turning the tie on its head. Dortmund pulled one back through Karim Adeyemi, and although Atalanta conceded a late penalty, a 4–1 victory on the night and 4–3 aggregate ensured their advancement to the Round of 16—the sole Italian club remaining.
Play-Off Results Overview
| Italian Club | Opponent | 1st Leg | 2nd Leg | Aggregate | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inter Milan | Bodø/Glimt | 1–3 | 1–2 | 2–5 | Eliminated |
| Juventus | Galatasaray | 2–5 | 3–0 (AET) | 5–5 | Eliminated |
| Atalanta | Borussia Dortmund | 0–2 | 4–1 | 4–3 | Advanced |
Atalanta: A Symbol of Hope
Football journalist Daniele Berri remarked, “Had none of the three teams progressed, it would have been a complete disaster for our clubs.” The perseverance and tactical brilliance of Atalanta have rejuvenated Italian optimism, even as they face giants like Arsenal or Bayern Munich in the Round of 16. Former West Brom and Aston Villa defender Curtis Davies noted on Radio 5 Live, “Atalanta is now Italian football’s favourite.”
Analyst James Horncastle added, “Atalanta has transformed Italian football’s perception in Europe. Just eight years ago, they were an unproven side; now they have European trophies and multiple Coppa Italia final appearances to their name.” Journalist Nicky Bandini emphasised the wider impact, stating, “Atalanta’s triumph sends a stronger message than Juventus or Inter could, given their historical status. It’s an important victory for the image of Italian football.”
Atalanta’s Champions League journey demonstrates that determination, resilience, and tactical intelligence can redefine a club’s legacy—and, for now, Italy’s hope in European football rests with them.