Napoli failed to get all 3 points. Assistant coach Sterini: We must improve the mentality of ball possession and dominating the game

In the 31st round of the 2024/25 Serie A season, Napoli took the lead with Anguisa's goal, but lost the ball in the second half and was tied by Bologna 1-1. Interim coach Christian Stellini said that the players must increase their desire to control the ball and dominate the game, and must maintain the same intensity to continue chasing their dreams.

In the 17th minute, Anguissa dribbled into the penalty area and then passed the Bologna goalkeeper and pushed the ball into the empty goal, helping Napoli take the lead 1-0.

In the 64th minute of the second half, Jens Odegaard made a cross in front of the goal, and Dan N'Doye shot directly with his heel. The ball hit the post and bounced into the net, tying the score for Bologna at 1-1.

In the end, Napoli drew 1-1 with Bologna away. After failing to get all three points, Napoli currently ranks second in the standings with 65 points, 3 points behind the leader Inter Milan.

Napoli assistant coach Christian Sterlini said in an interview, "We played very well in the first half. We formulated a high-pressure and high-intensity tactic before the game, and the players executed it well. But in the second half we did lack something, maybe we focused more on defense rather than offense. In such an atmosphere and against Bologna, who is in excellent form, it is difficult to regain the initiative once it is lost."

"We were no longer able to control the ball and as a team we need to keep speeding up and pressing high. If we can't do that, we won't be able to have an impact in the game. We need to improve our mentality and our desire to control the ball and dominate the game."

Christian Stellini continued, “Bologna pressed very well and we were not able to keep the rhythm like in the first half. The ball passed to Lukaku was too far away and easier to be intercepted by the opponent, and Bologna really forced us to lose our formation, which also led to a lot of mistakes.”

As for the current situation in the league, Christian Sterlini said, "We want to fight for important goals, but we must also realize that our goal at the beginning of the season was to fight for the top 4, so these points are still crucial for us to continue this goal."

"If we can continue to improve our mentality and learn how to maintain the same intensity, quality and pace in the second half, then we can continue to pursue our dreams."