Soccer-Atalanta set sights on top-eight finish ahead of final game against Barcelona

Soccer Football - Serie A - Como v Atalanta - Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, Como, Italy - January 25, 2025 Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini during the match REUTERS/Daniele Mascolo/ File Photo

(Reuters) - Atalanta have outperformed their expectations in the Champions League this season and will now make one final push in their last league-phase game at Barcelona to seal an automatic knockout spot, manager Gian Piero Gasperini said on Tuesday.

Atalanta have impressed in the new-look competition and have lost only once in seven games -- against European champions Real Madrid.