Atalanta faced a tough challenge against Borussia Dortmund, losing 2-0 in the first leg of their Champions League playoff match. The game saw Guirassy score an early goal, which set the tone for Dortmund's dominance. His contribution included an assist for Beier, sealing Atalanta's fate as they struggled to respond to the German side's aggressive play. While Atalanta has been performing well in their domestic league, this defeat signifies a third consecutive loss in European competition for the squad managed by Palladino.

The build-up to the match was charged with tension due to prior frictions between the two clubs, adding to the atmosphere of the encounter. Fans were eager for a competitive showdown, but the reality turned out to be a struggle for Atalanta, who could not capitalize on any of their opportunities. Despite showing promise in the Serie A, their current form in Europe raises questions about their ability to compete at this level consistently.

This match highlights the challenges that Italian clubs face in the Champions League, particularly when matched against teams like Borussia Dortmund, who have robust support and experience in European contests. For Atalanta, the focus will quickly shift to recuperating in their domestic league, as they need to assess how to turn around their European fortunes before the return leg.