The draw against Roma at the Maradona leaves mixed feelings, but Pasquale Mazzocchi looks beyond the result and defends Napoli's spirit. Speaking to Radio Crc, the Italian winger analyzed the 2-2 draw against Gasperini's team and praised the team's response. "I think we lacked nothing against Roma; it was a very physical game with many challenges won on both sides. They played some parts of the game better than us, but I think that with all the difficulties we're facing, we showed that we're fighting tooth and nail to at least get a draw."
A point earned after trailing twice, a sign of a team that doesn't give up. "Last year, we won the league with the best defense, so it's important to highlight that Roma have this characteristic today. When you face teams with a solid and strong defense, it's difficult to score, but the coach did a good job with his substitutions to find the equalizer."
The comparison with the Scudetto-winning season is inevitable. Napoli has already conceded 25 goals this year, a far cry from their triumphant run. "We're certainly having difficulties, but we're trying to improve every day. We have to realize that football is like this: you can't always win, you can't always be the best defense in the league. Not every season goes like last year's. We have to roll up our sleeves and try to do better every day."
Between injuries and a tight schedule, the group has been put to the test. "True teams emerge when things get tough. I'm increasingly realizing how much this group is full of values, because we never give up. In difficult times, the many years of work, the experience, and the meaning of wearing this jersey come to the fore."
Mazzocchi, a Neapolitan born in 1995, also feels invested in the locker room, especially in welcoming new arrivals like Alisson and Giovane. "They're great guys. As a true Neapolitan, I always try to make everyone feel at home and understand the meaning of the jersey they wear. They're integrating well; we're on the right track."
There's also room for young players, like Vergara. "I told him to keep going, but without getting too excited when things go well or getting disappointed when they go badly. Today, we're exposed to constant criticism on social media, which can damage a player's mentality. That's why I told him to always believe in himself."
Aside from the Champions League and the Coppa Italia, the league remains. "A typical week allows us to rest more. When you have so many injuries and three games in a week, it's not easy. Playing one game a week allows us to approach matches with greater clarity." Starting with the next away match against Atalanta. "We'll try to prepare for it as best we can; I'm sure the coach will work hard on it."
Finally, a look beyond the pitch with the "Sanghe Pe Napule" solidarity project, supported by the club with Sorgesana and Avis. "It's a very important issue: we must be willing to donate and empathize with those in need."
Source EDITORIAL TEAM
Comments (1)
I read the article and it seems to me that Mazzocchi made some important points. Napoli is facing difficulties, but it's important to maintain team spirit. Let's hope they can do better in the next matches.