麻豆社

Bergamo in northern Italy was at the centre of Europe's coronavirus outbreak: around 3,000 people died around the city - and tests show that more than half its residents have been exposed to the virus.

One factor that has been suggested for Covid-19's rapid spread was a champions league match in Milan in February involving its football team, Atalanta. Just days before people became aware the virus was spreading in Europe, the team's unexpected victory against Valencia led to fans to celebrate - hugging and kissing in delight - in the crowded stadium.

But despite lockdown and tragedy in the months since, Atalanta has gone on to give Bergamo's citizens a fairytale season. The club was just minutes away from a place in the last four in its first ever season in the Champions League - only for French champions Paris Saint-Germain to end the dream by grabbing two late goals.

Martino Simcik Arese, editor of the video channel Copa90 Stories, explains Atalanta's special season.

(Photo: Atalanta"s supporters watch the UEFA Champions League quarter final soccer match between Atalanta BC and Paris Saint-Germain in Bergamo, Italy. Credit: EPA)

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