Antonio Conte admitted he would have been content with a goalless draw against Cagliari, making Napoli`s dramatic late winner all the more exhilarating for him. He also extended a warm welcome to new recruits Rasmus Hojlund and Eljif Elmas joining the team.
In their inaugural home game of the season at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, the Partenopei found themselves increasingly vexed. They struggled to penetrate a robust Cagliari defense, marshaled by their former goalkeeper Elia Caprile.
Yet, in the 95th minute of added time, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa converted Alessandro Buongiorno`s assist, securing a crucial three points. Conte`s immediate reaction from the touchline was palpable.
“Finally!” he exclaimed to DAZN Italia.
“Everyone witnessed the game unfold; it was a classic scenario where you face a significant risk of conceding. I would have been satisfied even with a 0-0 result, as we performed like a cohesive unit, demonstrating patience in our persistent efforts to break through.”
“It seemed as though our goal was somehow jinxed, and Cagliari displayed remarkable intensity, adopting a defensive posture I hadn`t anticipated. Crucially, we denied them any counter-attacking opportunities, which is vital when you`re dominating possession to that extent. Our concentration and intensity are clearly improving; we maintained our belief until the very last moment and were deservedly rewarded with the winning goal just twenty seconds from time. I am exceptionally pleased.”
Napoli`s Attack: Conte Highlights Need for Reinforcements
Napoli faced challenges in scoring, relying on Lorenzo Lucca and Italy U21 international Ambrosino as their sole central attacking options.
Following a severe thigh injury, Romelu Lukaku is sidelined for three to four months. Consequently, Rasmus Hojlund is scheduled for his medical tomorrow, set to join on a €6m loan deal with a €44m obligation to buy should Napoli secure Champions League qualification.
Conte observed, “When confronting teams that defend so deeply with two defensive lines, the optimal strategy involves circulating the ball to stretch their formation.”
“Alternatively, one can deliver crosses and flood the penalty area. We attempted both approaches, but weren`t consistently prepared to convert the deliveries from Spinazzola and Politano.”
“These types of games demand patience; one must avoid becoming frantic. Lucca was brought in to develop under Romelu, but with Romelu`s injury, he must independently accelerate his learning curve and assimilate specific team movements.”
Rasmus Hojlund arrived this evening and is set to finalize his transfer from Manchester United tomorrow, pending medical examinations. Concurrently, Eljif Elmas is making his return to the Stadio Maradona from RB Leipzig.
Conte reiterated, “We have signed players capable of contributing immediately and who represent Napoli`s future. Our aim was to expand and complete the squad, as last season, without European commitments, we relied heavily on a core of 12-13 players.”
“This season necessitates integrating new talent into a Scudetto-winning squad. After only two matches, I prioritize selecting players who offer the greatest assurances, which naturally includes many from the previous season`s roster.”
“Regrettably, David Neres experienced an adductor discomfort this morning, leading us to avoid risking him tonight. Noa Lang will see increased game time as the season progresses.”
“Buongiorno has returned from injury, and Juan Jesus consistently demonstrates his readiness when called upon. Ambrosino made his debut today; we require players like him and Vergara to bolster our squad depth, especially considering they are academy graduates.”
“Elmas would have been useful tonight due to his midfield versatility, and Hojlund`s arrival is also anticipated. We are striving to manage everything correctly, acknowledging that last season`s squad lacked the depth required to compete across all competitions this year,” the coach concluded.