Atalanta Ring Changes for High-Stakes Hapoel Tel-Aviv Clash: UECL Official Line-Ups Revealed

FolioPitch.com – 28 August 2026 | The UECL official line-ups Hapoel Tel-Aviv vs Atalanta were released ahead of the decisive UEFA Conference League play-off second leg, with both sides making significant changes from the first meeting. Atalanta, who were held to a surprising 0-0 draw at home in the first leg, look to secure their place in the group stage on neutral ground, with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini opting for a heavily rotated starting XI.

With the aggregate score level, the return fixture at the DVTK Stadium in Miskolc, Hungary, promises to be a tense and tactical affair. The UECL official line-ups Hapoel Tel-Aviv vs Atalanta show that Atalanta are taking no risks with fitness, handing starts to several fringe players while resting key regulars. Nikola Krstovic leads the line, supported by Lazar Samardzic and Giacomo Raspadori in a fluid attacking setup. Nicola Zalewski also earns a spot, adding width and energy on the left flank.

The most notable changes come in defense, where Raoul Bellanova and Sead Kolasinac are deployed as full-backs, suggesting a return to a back three. This tactical shift indicates that Gasperini wants more solidity after the goalless first leg, while still providing attacking impetus through the wings. However, Atalanta are without several key personnel: Thomas Kristensen, Isak Hien, and Kamaldeen Sulemana remain sidelined with injuries, and Honest Ahanor is reportedly on the verge of a €48 million move to Chelsea, raising questions about his focus and inclusion.

In midfield, the experienced duo of Ederson and Gianluca Gaetano anchor the play, allowing Samardzic to roam forward and link up with the front three. This setup suggests Atalanta are aiming to dominate possession and create chances through quick interchanges. On the other hand, Hapoel Tel-Aviv have made one significant change: striker Emmanuel Boateng, who limped off injured in the first leg, is passed fit and starts up front. The Israeli side otherwise remains largely unchanged, with the only real contention being between Stav Turiel and Douglas Owusu for the supporting role.

Hapoel are likely to sit deep and hit on the counter, exploiting Boateng’s physical presence and pace. The UECL official line-ups Hapoel Tel-Aviv vs Atalanta highlight the contrasting approaches: Atalanta with their technical superiority and possession-based game, while Hapoel will look to remain compact and frustrate their opponents, relying on set-pieces and quick breaks.

For Atalanta, the tie represents a crucial opportunity to re-establish European credentials after a disappointing league start. With the Serie A campaign already underway, Gasperini’s selection shows a balancing act between domestic and continental duties. The absence of Charles De Ketelaere, still not fully fit, means a heavier creative burden on Samardzic and Raspadori, both capable of unlocking stubborn defenses. The second leg is expected to be a test of patience and nerve, with the away goal rule no longer in play in UEFA competitions, meaning any draw with goals would force extra time.

Hapoel, meanwhile, will be buoyed by their first-leg performance, having kept a clean sheet at the Gewiss Stadium. They are underdogs but have proven they can compete with top European sides. The UECL official line-ups Hapoel Tel-Aviv vs Atalanta indicate that Hapoel are fielding their strongest available team, with Falcao and Kraev providing steel in midfield, while Altman and Alkoukin offer width and creativity.

Kick-off is set for 19.00 UK time (18.00 CEST) at the DVTK Stadium, a venue chosen to allow Hapoel to play outside Israel due to security concerns. The atmosphere is expected to be passionate, with both sets of fans eager for success. Atalanta’s experience in European competitions could prove decisive, but Hapoel’s resilience cannot be underestimated.

As the match approaches, all eyes will be on the tactical battle between Gasperini and Hapoel’s coaches. Will Atalanta’s rotation pay off, or will the disjointed lineup struggle to find rhythm? With so much at stake, the UECL official line-ups Hapoel Tel-Aviv vs Atalanta provide the final blueprint for a thrilling encounter. One thing is certain: neither team can afford to sit back, as the winner progresses to the Conference League group stage and a chance at continental glory.

In conclusion, the stage is set for a fiercely contested play-off decider. Atalanta’s superior squad depth makes them favorites, but Hapoel’s defensive discipline and Boateng’s return could spring a surprise. Given the first leg’s stalemate, the second leg is likely to be decided by a single moment of brilliance or a costly error. Fans of both clubs can expect an intense 90 minutes, with extra time and penalties a real possibility if the scores remain level.