Napoli boss Francesco Calzona says the problem for his team lies in their mindset, following a 1-1 draw with Cagliari. The Partenopei missed a host of chances before a Juan Jesus mistake allowed Cagliari to snatch a draw in the dying minutes of the game. Speaking with DAZN in the post-match, Calzona tried to explain where he thinks the problems lie with his Napoli side and what they can do to fix them:
“Certainly, the problem lies in the mindset. We knew Cagliari would start strong at home and finish strong. We were prepared, but we lost a lot of balls, which affected our first half. Then we had opportunities to close the game, which we didn’t take. But at least we were organized, which is important from my perspective of football.”
He continued: “The missed opportunities are crucial. We didn’t capitalize, but at least on a ball kicked from midfield, we should have been more attentive. I put Ostigard in because he is strong in the air, but unfortunately, this happened. Tomorrow, we start again from scratch, focusing on organization. The management after the goal was decent, and we move forward. Unfortunately, we can’t do anything else.”
Further elaborating on the team’s mental state: “I’ve had individual and group discussions. In these five-six days, I found a team that immediately made itself available. I am really happy about this; problems aren’t solved overnight. We must strive to find a better psychological condition, but I want to start from the availability of the boys, which has positively surprised me. We are clearly tied to the results; we aren’t looking for excuses. I have to put the team in a position to do well.”
Calzona commented on individuals: “Kvara does everything I ask of him. Sometimes he focuses so much that he loses sight of his qualities. He’s a fantastic guy, maybe a bit introverted, speaks little, but he has great availability. I think he will give us a hand soon. I’m happy with him and the whole team; this availability gives me hope.”
Finally, on goals and Osimhen: “In the situation we’re in, we have to take it game by game, try to win as much as possible. In the end, we’ll sum it up; making plans is useless. We’ll see where we end up; after today’s draw, it’s more difficult, but until mathematics condemns us, we must aim for the highest goal. Osimhen was tired; I don’t think it’s anything particular, just fatigue. Victor is a fantastic guy; I haven’t spoken to him much because there’s no need. He’ll gradually regain his best condition; he was at the Africa Cup of Nations: there are climatic and dietary issues. Players return devastated from the Africa Cup of Nations; he needs time. Today, we replaced him because he couldn’t continue; the other night (against Barcelona), he was in the same condition as today; we noticed, but he wanted to stay on the field.”
