Andrea Stramaccioni saw “one of Udinese’s best performances” in their heart-breaking Coppa Italia exit to Napoli on penalties.
The Friulani went down to 10 men after 68 minutes, but still forced extra time and even a shoot-out when drawing 2-2 at the San Paolo.
“We are disappointed at the elimination, but I could not have asked my lads for more. I think it was one of Udinese’s best performances of the season,” Strama told Rai Sport.
Andrea Stramaccioni saw “one of Udinese’s best performances” in their heart-breaking Coppa Italia exit to Napoli on penalties.
The Friulani went down to 10 men after 68 minutes, but still forced extra time and even a shoot-out when drawing 2-2 at the San Paolo.
“We are disappointed at the elimination, but I could not have asked my lads for more. I think it was one of Udinese’s best performances of the season,” Strama told Rai Sport.
“We were also unlucky, as Aguirre was meant to take the last penalty, but he injured himself in extra time, so Allan went instead.
“Udinese have a project to make the most of talented young players and in this emergency situation I had no problem giving 18-year-old Jaadi a start. He provided the assist for Thereau’s goal and other great moves.”
Napoli received two penalties during the game, one was fired on to the bar by Dries Mertens and Jorginho converted the other.
“The first penalty looked clear, as Duvan Zapata was hooked back, but the second is less obvious, especially as Zapata absolutely could not reach the ball.
“I thought Widmer’s second booking was also harsh, but incidents happen and they always will. Let’s not go down the usual Italian route of talking only about the referee after such a fantastic game of football.”
Stramaccioni also joked about the moment Giandomenico Mesto accidentally hacked him down on the touchline.
“In my view that was a red card offence!”