Carlo Ancelotti assured Napoli’s 0-0 draw with Genk was “not a slip-up at all and remains a positive result,” while explaining why Lorenzo Insigne was in the stands.
The Partenopei hit the woodwork three times and saw Kalidou Koulibaly’s effort cleared off the line at the Luminus Arena.
“It was a good performance and we had several chances for the breakthrough,” Ancelotti said on Sky Sport Italia and in a Press conference.
Carlo Ancelotti assured Napoli’s 0-0 draw with Genk was “not a slip-up at all and remains a positive result,” while explaining why Lorenzo Insigne was in the stands.
The Partenopei hit the woodwork three times and saw Kalidou Koulibaly’s effort cleared off the line at the Luminus Arena.
“It was a good performance and we had several chances for the breakthrough,” Ancelotti said on Sky Sport Italia and in a Press conference.
“Our finishing wasn’t very effective and we were a little unlucky too. The only risk we had at the back came after a slip, so we were always in control.
“It’s an extra point, we showed grit and determination, but could’ve finished our chances better.”
Arkadiusz Milik wasted several free headers, while Hirving Lozano was largely anonymous, but the Coach stood up for his picks.
“Milik and Lozano played well. Milik could’ve finished better, but he did a great job in shaking off his marker.”
The big question was of course why captain Insigne was left in the stands, not even on the bench.
“I saw him looking less than sharp in training, so I preferred to preserve him for the next game.”
This result against a side that had lost 6-2 to RB Salzburg suggests Napoli could waste the advantage given by beating Liverpool 2-0 in the opening game.
“Obviously, we have faith in our chances of reaching the Champions League Round of 16 and now must prepare for the double meeting with RB Salzburg.
“The objective is to top the group, although first or second doesn’t make much difference. The Champions League is not an easy competition, so we take this away point and it remains a positive result.
“This is not a slip-up at all. We could’ve done better, but I have no reason to reproach my players. We could’ve won, but a draw away from home is not a tragedy.”