Rafa Benitez said Napoli can treasure their victory over Roma, especially as he had to revamp his midfield.

“We’ve seen many games that Napoli played well and didn’t win, so to beat a strong side like Roma I think we ought to be happy,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia after the 1-0 result.

Rafa Benitez said Napoli can treasure their victory over Roma, especially as he had to revamp his midfield.

“We’ve seen many games that Napoli played well and didn’t win, so to beat a strong side like Roma I think we ought to be happy,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia after the 1-0 result.

It’s their second consecutive win over the Giallorossi, as there was a 3-0 last month in the Coppa Italia semi-final.

“I think we are the only team this season who have beaten Roma twice. That must mean we are doing something right.

“We lost Valon Behrami and Jorginho this morning, so had to change things around, which made the win even more pleasing.

“We had quality throughout the year and without certain players today we still had intensity, scoring opportunities and kept a clean sheet.

“Of course we had a few problems on the counter-attack, but that was because we lost the ball, so we have to work on that. Our idea is to attack and we went forward from the start trying to get the victory.

“I think both teams had their chances and it could’ve gone either way, but we took our opportunity and won the game.

“It is up to us to do even better and motivate the fans, but I think the majority of supporters are satisfied to see a team that plays good football, attacks and is progressing in three tournaments.”

Benitez was asked about Marek Hamsik’s continuing poor form since his return from injury.

“At the start of the season he did very well, but he was out for two months and is really struggling to regain full fitness. We know he has the quality and will get there eventually.”

Pepe Reina performed some decisive saves, particularly on a deflected Douglas Maicon strike.

“It seems a bit much to say a 32-year-old goalkeeper is old! He is in great physical shape, reads the game very well and I said at Liverpool he was one of the best in the world. Will he remain at Napoli? There is a clause in the contract, but we’ll discuss it later.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Tickets Kit Collector