Napoli’s coach after the win: “The spirit was good; unfortunately, we weren’t able to secure the win earlier. We had many chances to score the second goal, and we would have been much more relaxed.”
With merit and a bit of luck, Napoli returns to winning, securing the first three points of their Champions League campaign against Braga away in Portugal. They are the only Italian team to clinch a victory on this opening day.
Rudi Garcia first emphasizes the importance of the achieved result, saying, “Winning away from home in this competition is always difficult, and we managed to do it, even scoring two goals. Well, let’s say one and a half because there was an own goal.”
“However, we need to work on delivering crosses better in front of the goal, we are not doing a good job in that area. The spirit was good, but unfortunately, we couldn’t secure the second goal which would have meant closing the game, stay relaxed and not suffer in the end.”
However, there are still some positive points to note for the coach. Napoli had opportunities, yet the victory was hard-fought. In particular, more is expected from Kvaratskhelia. The player was substituted early again. When asked if the Georgian player was still below his expected standards, Garcia responded,
“Yes, he needs to play more and find his rhythm. He was involved in the first goal by Di Lorenzo, but there is also the defensive aspect. Look at Osimhen, he fought and ran all day long, because we all need to defend, everyone in every position needs to stay together.”
