Rafa Benitez praised the “intensity” of Napoli’s 1-1 Coppa Italia draw with Lazio and defended squad rotation.
The first leg of the semi-final ended 1-1 at the Stadio Olimpico with the decider next month.
“We saw a game with intensity and pace – the rain made it feel like the Premier League! – and the players were perfect considering we have so many games at the moment,” he told Rai Sport.
Rafa Benitez praised the “intensity” of Napoli’s 1-1 Coppa Italia draw with Lazio and defended squad rotation.
The first leg of the semi-final ended 1-1 at the Stadio Olimpico with the decider next month.
“We saw a game with intensity and pace – the rain made it feel like the Premier League! – and the players were perfect considering we have so many games at the moment,” he told Rai Sport.
“I said many times that we rotate the squad to maintain sharpness, which was important tonight against an intense side like Lazio and especially on a quick pitch.
“This is a strong squad, Riccardo Bigon and his staff are working to make it strong not just for next season, but well into the future.”
Manolo Gabbiadini was on target again, but Benitez assured he will continue to rotate his squad.
“We are looking for the right balance and everyone must be prepared to help out at the back. Competition between players allows us to reach these games with the right level of intensity and spurs everyone on to do better.”
The Coach also stood up for his much-maligned defenders.
“If we had 15 shots on goal and five or six clear scoring opportunities, it means our defence helped our attack to create a great deal. If we talk about the Napoli defence, then we have to say the same about the Lazio defence.
“I am satisfied with the team performance. We win and lose all together.”
Benitez was extremely irritable and tight-lipped with reporters after the 1-0 defeat to Torino on Sunday, so what changed from that game?
“I thought the second half against Torino was good. Tonight the first half we worked hard when Lazio were pushing, then did very well after the break, remaining concentrated throughout.
“I think after many years someone has the right to be angry when things don’t work.”