News Focus
- Napoli suffered a dramatic 3-2 home defeat against Bologna in a crucial Serie A clash.
- The loss postpones their qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
- Head coach Antonio Conte conceded that falling behind early has become a recurring issue.
- The Partenopei recovered from 2-0 down to equalise, only to lose to a last-gasp goal.
- The race for a top-four finish remains tight with just two matches left to play.
Antonio Conte believes Napoli were unfortunate to lose against Bologna, yet he accepts their tendency to start matches slowly is a genuine concern. The Italian coach watched his side fall two goals behind once again before mounting a spirited comeback that ultimately ended in disappointment.
The Partenopei entered the fixture knowing that a victory would secure their place in Europe’s premier club competition with two rounds to spare. However, strikes from Federico Bernardeschi and Riccardo Orsolini handed the visitors a comfortable lead. Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Alisson Santos brought the hosts level, but Jonathan Rowe snatched the points for Bologna with an acrobatic volley during stoppage time.
Speaking to DAZN Italia after the match, Conte emphasised the need for effective pressing. “When you press, you must do it properly. If you only commit halfway, you simply waste energy,” he stated. The manager pointed out that this was not the first occasion his team had faced a two-goal deficit, proving the problem is not accidental.
“Clearly, we must show greater determination from the opening whistle because this pattern keeps repeating,” Conte added. He praised his players for their desire to win the match, but regretted the late defensive lapse. “I do not feel we deserved defeat, yet football can be cruel.”
The result leaves Napoli in a precarious position in the battle for the top four. They sit merely two points clear of Juventus, three ahead of both Milan and Roma, while even Como remain within reach. With only two fixtures remaining, Conte understands his team cannot afford further errors.
The former Chelsea and Inter Milan boss also defended his young striker, who is currently the only fit forward in the squad. Conte explained he would prefer to rest the player, who recently arrived from the Premier League, but lacks alternatives. “He is just 23 years old and works extremely hard for the team. He still has plenty of room for improvement,” Conte noted.
Furthermore, the manager highlighted the progress of Brazilian winger Alisson Santos, who joined from Sporting earlier in the campaign. Conte acknowledged that the player is adapting well despite having limited starting experience at his previous club. However, he cautioned that opposing defenders are now studying Alisson’s movements, which will make his task more challenging.