Milan’s exit was marred by controversy as Theo Hernandez was sent off for diving, and they ultimately lost 2-1 on aggregate to Feyenoord.
The Rossoneri had high hopes of advancing to the next round, but their dreams were shattered at the San Siro.
Atalanta, on the other hand, suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Club Brugge, losing 5-2 on aggregate. Chemsdine Talbi’s early double and Ferran Jutgla’s strike in the first half proved too much for Atalanta to overcome, despite Ademola Lookman’s goal in the second half.
This setback means that only two Serie A teams, Inter and Juventus, remain in the Champions League. The Italian league’s UEFA coefficient is likely to take a hit, making it harder for Italian teams to secure qualification spots in the future.
According to sources, Milan’s coach Sergio Conceicao was left frustrated by the referee’s decision to send off Hernandez, stating that it was a ” harsh decision” that changed the course of the game.
Atalanta’s coach Gian Piero Gasperini, on the other hand, took responsibility for the defeat, saying that his team ” didn’t play well enough” to deserve a spot in the next round.
The elimination of Milan and Atalanta from the Champions League has sparked concerns about the competitiveness of Serie A teams in European competitions.
With only two Italian teams remaining in the tournament, the pressure is on Inter and Juventus to perform well and restore Italian football’s pride.
