Stefano Pioli is aware of the challenge a trip to Napoli represents, but suggests that his Bologna side are capable of a result, even when weakened.
Stefano Pioli is aware of the challenge a trip to Napoli represents, but suggests that his Bologna side are capable of a result, even when weakened.
The Felsinei go into Monday night’s fixture without a host of first-team regulars, including Daniele Portanova, Alessandro Diamanti and Panagiotis Kone.
However, former Parma and Chievo Coach Pioli believes that the team is in a position where it does not rely on individuals.
“Our organisation will still allow us to produce a performance against a team in good health. Our strength lies in the compactness of the group. We will give 100 per cent.
“Bologna is a team that can change according to its features and even sometimes to those of its opponent. I might decide to play three in defence.”
The Partenopei struggled to overcome a weakened Cesena team in the Coppa Italia on Thursday night, an encounter that Pioli watched.
“Yesterday I saw a Napoli that plays with great skill and who knows by heart each position on the field. Of course Cesena made life difficult for them, but in the long run their value was found.
“If we are to have any chance of beating Napoli though, we have to pull out a performance of the highest level, since Monday we face an opponent who is very strong.”