Vincenzo Italiano is happy despite Fiorentina’s 2-2 draw against Lecce and explains the difference between M’Bala Nzola and Lucas Beltran.
The Tuscans scored twice in the opening 25 minutes but saw Lecce complete a surprising comeback and secure a 2-2 draw at the Stadio Franchi on Sunday.
“Despite having a few days to prepare for the game, we had a strong start and we had great quality in the first half,” Italiano told DAZN.
“We had many chances to score the third goal, but these games at the beginning of the season can be tricky. We lost possession in the middle of the park twice and we conceded two goals.
“We need to improve in terms of focus, we concede every time we face a shot on target. It’s a defect that we have and we must work on it otherwise games become complicated,” the Tuscans’ coach continued.
“I had told Arthur that this team concede goals every time we lose the ball.
“Now he has experienced it, he is aware of what it means to be focused and be always involved in the game. He has immense quality, we strongly wanted him and I think he showed his quality in the first three games of the season.
“I saw a good Fiorentina in the first half and I believe we can fix our weakness,” Italiano added.
“I saw a team that continues to create and I am happy with Beltran. Christensen approached the game well and the same goes for Arthur and Parisi. It’s just the beginning. It’s normal to have some drops, it’s very hot and we are playing many games already. Despite all the rotations, the team reacted well.”
Beltran started his first competitive game at Fiorentina with Nzola initially on the bench.
“Nzola attacks the space more and is stronger physically. Beltran has more quality in tight spaces, he knows how to create the space and link up with his teammates. He is smart,” explained Italiano.
“We have two important players, so I need to help them do well.”