Udinese came away from their trip to Napoli empty handed on Saturday, but it was far from a disappointing display against the league leaders. Coach Andrea Sottil was full of praise for his side’s performance against top opposition. “You could see the quality Napoli have on the pitch today. Playing here is certainly not easy.”
Overall, it was an impressive performance. “The only regret perhaps is the first goal, because it was too easy for Osimhen to put it in the back of the net.”
On this occasion, Sottil’s men didn’t quite manage to complete the comeback but the coach was pleased with the display of heart and quality in any case. “This was another excellent performance. We had a great game and played our football. We’re disappointed to come home without any points.”
As the league draws to a close for 2022 on account of the World Cup, Udinese sit in eighth spot and have 24 points from 15 games. “This is positive. Perhaps we haven’t picked up those points evenly across the season, but we got six consecutive victories right at the start. In recent games, we haven’t managed to pick up those wins. However, I want to wholeheartedly congratulate the lads both for their performance today and in the league so far.”
Sottil explained his footballing philosophy and decision to bring on Isaac Success after Gerard Deulofeu was forced off through injury. “I always respect the opponents we face. Respecting them does not mean fearing them. We decided to play with this mentality from day one. I decided to bring on Isaac because I think he’s one of the best players in Italy at spurring his team on and being a target man. My aim was to keep striving for goals.”
It often goes under the radar, but the coach was sure to point out the development of his side. “We have a lot of young players in this team who are making their Serie A debuts. These players have lots of room to grow and this kind of game is really important in achieving that.”
With the league now paused for the World Cup, there will be some time to recharge ahead of preparations for the next instalment after Christmas. “We will work hard on technical and tactical features, as well as physical ones, like we did when we started in July. A great understanding has been developed with these guys and I’ll work with everyone at the analytical level to help them grow and improve further.”