Rafa Benitez claims Napoli “had the game 100 per cent under control” despite their 1-0 defeat to Udinese.
The Partenopei have lost two Serie A games on the trot, but during those rounds had 43 attempts on goal without managing to score.
Rafa Benitez claims Napoli “had the game 100 per cent under control” despite their 1-0 defeat to Udinese.
The Partenopei have lost two Serie A games on the trot, but during those rounds had 43 attempts on goal without managing to score.
There were reports of tension in the locker room, including a furious Gonzalo Higuain and Vice-President Edoardo De Laurentiis punching a glass door, but the Coach denied those were true.
“This game was under control, then because of a soft challenge in the box we lost it,” Benitez told Sky Sport Italia.
“Up until that moment, Rafael didn’t have a save to make. It’s a shame, as this match could’ve been won with quality, instead it was the other way round.
“In any case, we saw the team performance was there, as we created chances and also hit the woodwork. I didn’t see any Udinese opportunities today and we had the game under control, 100 per cent. We lacked determination in attack.”
Benitez made several changes from the side that beat Sparta Prague 3-1 in the Europa League on Thursday and explained his decisions.
“Inler had a temperature, while others were not at their best after Thursday’s game. Aside from the tactical novelties, the team was in control. We lost a game that we should not have lost and these players showed they have the right quality to win certain matches.
“We should’ve won against Chievo last week and again this evening. Higuain? We must create more to help the strikers and vice-versa.”
Benitez was also asked about the reports of trouble in the locker room after the game, particularly with Higuain furious.
“He is disappointed with a defeat like this, as they all are, but there was nothing over the top.”