Napoli are not assured Champions League qualification according to Coach Rafael Benitez, despite a seven point cushion in third.
The Partenopei have won their last four Serie A games in a row, and travel to Palermo tomorrow night with the possibility of putting 10 points between themselves and Fiorentina in fourth, depending on results.
“Is third place wrapped up?” Benitez considered in his pre-match Press conference.
Napoli are not assured Champions League qualification according to Coach Rafael Benitez, despite a seven point cushion in third.
The Partenopei have won their last four Serie A games in a row, and travel to Palermo tomorrow night with the possibility of putting 10 points between themselves and Fiorentina in fourth, depending on results.
“Is third place wrapped up?” Benitez considered in his pre-match Press conference.
“I don’t agree. Three points in a game can open everything up, we have to work and make sure we’re always playing well.
“To beat Palermo we’ll have to play with the high intensity, quality and concentration that we’ve shown recently both home and away. It won’t be easy.
“The team is growing, the players are growing and we’re playing well and winning. This situation is always pleasing for a Coach.
“The feeling is that our hard work is paying off, and I like that.”
Napoli lie four points behind Roma who occupy second place, but are unlikely to close the gap this weekend, as the Giallorossi take on bottom side Parma.
The Ducali are in financial turmoil, and while Benitez admits the situation is not helpful, he’s sure they will not roll over when they play Roma.
“It’s a shame [what’s happening to Parma], they played well against Chievo.
“They lost to a free-kick. The players and the Coach want to win every game, [but] it’s clear that their situation doesn’t help.
“However, the team has a good attitude and I hope it stays that way until the end of the season.”
Despite his side’s recent run of form, the former Liverpool manager admits that they must cut out defensive mistakes.
“Everyone has to make their own contribution, even the strikers,” Benitez declared.
“Everyone has to improve their intensity, concentration and focus. Often these are avoidable mistakes.
“We can do better in the opposing area and in defence. It’s normal to make mistakes near the goal, but it’s easier to improve defensively.
“We must do better in defence and be more accurate in attack. Last year we scored a few more goals and conceded a few less, and I wasn’t satisfied, and I’m not now.”