Calzona Congratulates Napoli But European Prospects Fade Away

Napoli wasted another opportunity to consolidate their pursuit of the European spots, drawing 2-2 against Roma at home. After last weekend’s dreadful performance against Empoli, Francesco Calzona’s men outclassed Giallorossi but failed to return to the win column. 

Given the number of chances Napoli created before halftime, it’s inconceivable how they headed into halftime goalless. The hosts weren’t clinical in front of goal, and it came back to haunt them at the final whistle. However, defensive mishaps played their part.

Both Roma’s goals came from set-piece plays. Calzona insists he and his associates did due diligence before the game and knew Giallorossi’s potential in such situations. That did Napoli no good as Daniele De Rossi’s team took their chances to eke out a draw.

“We knew Roma’s strength on set pieces. I made a change before the corner for this reason, it wasn’t enough. We conceded two goals from set-pieces, I don’t know what to say,” the Napoli manager said, as relayed by TWM.

It’s no doubt that Napoli were much better than Roma today. With a bit of luck, they should’ve avenged a 2-0 defeat in December’s reverse fixture, yet fate had other plans. But Calzona deemed it fit to congratulate his side for one of their best performances in 2024.

“I can only say that I am happy for the proud and quality performance of the boys.“

With only four games left, Napoli trail seventh-placed Lazio by four points and need a miracle to secure European football for next season.