Having scored the opener, captain Rafael Toloi can be satisfied with Atalanta’s performance, as his team won 2-0 away to Sampdoria (Lookman doubled the lead). “It was a special goal for me”, said Toloi.

Rafael Toloi, you’ve been true to your word. You said the team had to go to Genoa to win and you did it, you beat Sampdoria.

True. It was a difficult match but we already knew that. The team performed very well. We tried to play our game when we could. It wasn’t easy as the field wasn’t in good condition. However, the most important thing is the three points that we bring home. It was also great to see the fans, there were over 1,300 fans if I’m not wrong.

Almost 2,000!

“Almost 2,000, it’s great. There were also many fans at last week’s training session at the stadium. They are really important to us, this encourages us to do our best for Atalanta, Bergamo and them”.

You scored Atalanta’s first goal of this Serie A campaign.

“It was a special goal for me. The end of last season wasn’t what I wanted. I suffered many injuries. Hence, I tried to recover and get ready for this season. It’s undoubtedly special for me, but it’s even more important and special to bring the three points home”.

Rafael, Atalanta tried to dominate but also suffered. It was a cynical Atalanta side, who scored and then deservedly sealed the three points.

“Yes, we must be able to suffer. All teams have difficulties during the 90 minutes, as there is opposition to face. I think we did well and defended well. Quagliarella had a couple of chances, but it was just that. That was also a free kick [off the post ed.]. We should work on that and that’s what we have to do, to train hard and get prepared for the next game to do even better”.

You suffered a knock to your tendon but you said it was nothing serious.

“It’s nothing serious. I took a heavy blow to the tendon but I’ll be 100% ready on Tuesday”.