Antonio Conte addressed the media following Napoli’s 1-0 victory over Empoli, secured by Kvaratskhelia’s penalty. The Partenopei had struggled to create clear chances before the decisive spot-kick, with Buongiorno’s first-half effort from a set-piece and a subdued performance from Lukaku, who was substituted shortly before the penalty was awarded.
“We wanted to win this match. Empoli was one of the most in-form teams in the league, and no one had scored here yet,” said the Pugliese coach. “I didn’t like the first half; I didn’t like the timid and somewhat fearful approach, perhaps due to the tradition of us always having difficulties here in Empoli.”
The former Juventus and Inter coach continued, highlighting the changes made in the second half: “The boys understood that I wasn’t particularly happy, and in the second half, they showed their presence. We changed something tactically from an offensive standpoint, not defensively. I think we deserved to take the lead despite it being a balanced game, and if Empoli had scored in the first half, there would have been nothing to complain about. Credit to them and to Roberto D’Aversa.”
Conte concluded with a message for the city of Naples: “We are building a solid foundation to become ambitious. We must embrace the collective excitement of the fans, knowing that more difficult moments will come. The supporters are increasingly identifying with this team, and we want to build something that lasts over time.”
