Toloi happy with Atalanta performance despite loss

Rafael Toloi believes Atalanta emerge stronger from their defeat to Real Madrid. ‘We know that we can do well against anyone and there’s a second leg to play.’

La Dea defended heroically for 86 minutes, despite seeing Remo Freuler very harshly sent off after just 17 minutes, capitulating only to a long-range Ferland Mendy strike.

“We fought to the end. It’s difficult playing against Real Madrid, even more so when down to 10 men,” Toloi told Sky Sport Italia.

“I don’t think it was a red card, as we had Romero covering and he was going wide anyway. Nonetheless, we defended well, we are alive for the second leg and proved we can play on level terms with Real Madrid.

“Even with a man down, we created some interesting scoring opportunities. Once we get past the first press, we have spaces to play in, so we can hurt them in Madrid.

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We feel stronger after this game, we know that we can do well against anyone. Obviously, there is a bitter taste to the mouth after conceding that late goal, but we feel aware of what we’re capable of and there’s a second leg to play.”