Matteo Politano feels Napoli deserved a penalty kick against Barcelona for a foul on Victor Osimhen, but insists the Partenopei must now focus on Serie A and try to finish in the top four.
The Italian winger spoke to reporters in the mixed zone on Tuesday night following a 3-1 loss against Barcelona in the Champions League Round of 16 second leg.
“We are disappointed because we thought we could equalise. We even had a chance, but then they killed the game off,” said Politano, as quoted by TMW.
“We are sorry because we reacted well to a shocking start. Now, we must look forward because we have ten games remaining, and the target is to fight and put in these sorts of performances.”
The defending Serie A champions appealed for a penalty kick in the second half for a suspected foul on their star striker Osimhen.
“I was nearby, and honestly, I saw the contact, but unfortunately, they [referees] decided otherwise,” said the Italian winger.
“There is a little difference [between Serie A and Champions League] in terms of officiating.”
Even Napoli coach Francesco Calzona protested after the game saying that VAR should have intervened.
Politano said President Aurelio De Laurentiis didn’t meet the players during the half-time break.
“He didn’t come to the dressing room during the break, so we talked with the coach at the end of the match,” he said.
“We must analyse our errors and continue on this pathway because there is still time to reach the target.
“We knew the importance of this match; we knew Barcelona were a top side. However, we have one target now: to reach the top four and continue living nights like this. Despite the defeat, we must continue being confident.
“We must try to return to the Champions League; otherwise, it will be an ugly season. The fans are amazing; they follow us everywhere. The stadium is always sold out, and we hope to give them 10 amazing matches,” Politano concluded.
The 30-year-old has seven goals and eight assists in 38 appearances across all competitions this season. He netted once in eight Champions League matches in 2023-24.