Walter Mazzarri hailed a ‘very important victory’ for Napoli against Cagliari, but urged his players to be more serene. The Partenopei were able to include Victor Osimhen in the starting XI and he duly repaid his coach by scoring the opening goal and setting up the eventual winner for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Speaking in the post-match with DAZN, Mazzarri spoke of the importance of the win and why Kvaratskhelia was decisive to the eventual victory:
“It was a very important victory for us, we had to restart. The three points counted. The full-backs are fundamental. Kvara was also affected, a player like him is decisive for our game plan.”
“In the first half the goal seemed bewitched, we had record ball possession. This team was coming from a period of nervousness due to the results. Only by regaining serenity is it possible to score. It was an important game to win, I am happy”.
“Kvara? There was a change of coach because there were some problems, including confidence and nervousness. I was with him all afternoon talking. Last year he consecrated himself and all eyes were on him. When his plays and goals didn’t come he felt the pressure. Since my staff and I came, we’ve tried to make him more relaxed. It’s no coincidence that he scored.
“Champions League draw? Out of superstition I won’t say anything. If this team recovers certain values it will do well against anyone.
“Osimhen? The boy has regained his serenity, it was important for him to score. We have to get back to being as strong as last year”.
