New Napoli coach Francesco Calzona was delighted with the effort of his players for their 1-1 draw with Champions League opponents Barcelona.
Robert Lewandowski's opener for Barca was canceled out by Victor Osimhen as the round 16 first-leg clash finished all square.
Calzona later said: We have a lot of work to do, but I congratulated the team for rediscovering the desire to fight," Calzona told Amazon Prime Video Italia.
It was a very good second half, but on a tactical level we need progress. I put out some players who were not in the best shape, we allowed Barcelona to change the lines and cross the field, which you cannot do with a team like this.
However, at the end we tried to win it and that is an important sign. I really liked the spirit of the side.
The players gave their heart and soul to avoid defeat against a very strong opponent.
Considering our tactical problems, we struggled at the start, but I can understand there is some confusion after only one and a half days of working together.
Those who came off the bench provided more energy and organisation, doing very well."