Juventus won the last eight Serie A games without conceding and Gianfranco Zola praises Max Allegri, but warns the Bianconeri about two Napoli players ahead of tonight’s match at the Stadio Maradona.
The Partenopei host Juventus tonight in a key match in the title race tonight.
“It’s important for both clubs. A victory would mean a lot, but wouldn’t be decisive anyway. It’s important not to lose,” Zola told Gazzetta.
“Napoli have their identity and principles, they won’t change. The midfield is one of their secrets. Keep an eye on Lobotka and Anguissa.
“They are able to build up from the back and press high up the pitch, they look like a Spanish team.”
How about Khvicha Kvaratskhelia?
“He is a winger, but he has the quality of a No.10,” said Zola who compared the Georgia international to Angel Di Maria.
The Argentinean winger will change his role tonight, playing as an attacking midfielder or a support striker.
“This choice is dictated by the good performances of those playing on the flanks and the chance that Di Maria can have an impact in the middle, thanks to his experience and smartness,” noted Magic Box.
“Allegri could be happy with a draw that would keep their title hopes alive. They’ve bounced back and the coach has had a crucial role.”
Zola is a former Napoli player who once scored against Juventus in a match he will forever remember.
“It was 1992, we lost 3-2 and I scored a goal in the final minutes. Vialli had scored for Juventus. I still haven’t accepted that he is no longer with us. A part of me died with him, what happened gives me goosebumps, we spent amazing years at Chelsea.”
Juventus have the best defence in the league, having only conceded seven goals so far. Napoli, on the other hand, have the most prolific attack with 39 goals scored in 17 Serie A matches this season.
The Partenopei have only lost one game in Serie A this season, two across all competitions, while Juventus have lost two in Serie A and five in the Champions League.