Gian Piero Gasperini confessed Atalanta “completed comebacks in tougher situations than this, but just didn’t believe” enough against Milan.
Remo Freuler had taken the lead, but Krzysztof Piatek’s extraordinary volley with the last kick of half-time drew level.
Hakan Calhanoglu and a Piatek header then turned it all around for a 3-1 Rossoneri victory in Bergamo.
Gian Piero Gasperini confessed Atalanta “completed comebacks in tougher situations than this, but just didn’t believe” enough against Milan.
Remo Freuler had taken the lead, but Krzysztof Piatek’s extraordinary volley with the last kick of half-time drew level.
Hakan Calhanoglu and a Piatek header then turned it all around for a 3-1 Rossoneri victory in Bergamo.
“The equaliser seconds away from half-time changed the game. We had risked practically nothing, scored a good goal and were confident of being in control,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
“Milan did well once they took the lead to change the type of approach they had and neutralised us. We had the right performance until the equaliser, so the only complaint I have is that we let our heads drop.
“We had completed comebacks against so many sides, including Roma from 3-0 down, but this time we just didn’t seem to believe in ourselves. We gave up far too early and could at least have got a draw.
“Milan have everything it takes to challenge for a Champions League place. We have to build on how difficult we made it for them and realise what we got wrong after going behind.
“I don’t know why we were so dispirited, because this is not a club expected to qualify for the Champions League. We are still in a very strong position, we had overturned much tougher situations than this, but just didn’t have the confidence tonight.
“We congratulate Piatek and also Hakan Calhanoglu on being able to score those goals.”
Gasperini also seemed to give up by substituting Papu Gomez and Duvan Zapata.
“Papu had a knock early on that affected his performance and was also a little tired. Zapata too was tired, as it’s unthinkable for them to maintain their recent form all the time, it’s just a pity the dip came this evening. I took the opportunity to try some new faces.”