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Napoli coach apologizes to fans after lackluster loss at Empoli worsens title defense
Napoli’s struggles continue as they suffer a 1-0 loss to Empoli, jeopardizing their chances of European qualification. With only five rounds remaining, Napoli sits in eighth place, a significant 34 points behind league leaders Inter Milan. Coach Francesco Calzona issued an apology to fans, acknowledging the team’s need to work on their pride more than tactics. Empoli’s Alberto Cerri scored early in the match, leaving Napoli with only one shot on goal. The team has failed to find their form this season, disappointing fans and players alike. Napoli has won just three out of nine matches under Calzona’s leadership, highlighting their ongoing challenges.
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ROME — Napoli’s title defense is going from bad to worse.
The team’s third coach this season apologized to fans following a disheartening 1-0 loss at relegation-threatened Empoli on Saturday that left Napoli at risk of failing to qualify for Europe.
Napoli remained in eighth place, a whopping 34 points behind leader Inter Milan with only five rounds remaining.
“We need to work on our pride — more than tactics at this point,” Napoli coach Francesco Calzona said. “I want to apologize to Napoli’s fans.”
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Alberto Cerri scored four minutes in with a header for Empoli, which moved four points clear of the drop zone.
Napoli’s only shot on goal came midway through the second half when Kvicha Kvaratskhelia slalomed past two defenders before launching his effort. Empoli goalkeeper Elia Caprile pushed the shot wide.
“Empoli came out with ferociousness. We came out soft and were timid,” Calzona said. “It’s inconceivable but it’s my responsibility. Evidently, I didn’t transmit the desire to give our all.”
Empoli’s Alberto Cerri, left, celebrates after scoring their side’s first goal of the game during the Serie A soccer match between Empoli and Napoli at the Empoli Stadium in Empoli, Italy, Saturday, April 20, 2024. Credit: AP/Marco Bucco
Napoli has struggled all season and never found the form that led the Partenopei to their first Italian league title in more than three decades a year ago.
“This teams needs to do more. We owe it to the city and we owe it to the club, because they pay us and we need to assume responsibility,” Calzona said. “It’s my fault and the players’ fault, because the club lets us do our jobs without any issues. Our fans follow us home and away and we always have a full stadium. We have everything in place to do well and we’re not able to. That’s really upsetting to me.”
Napoli has won just three of nine Serie A matches since Calzona replaced Walter Mazzarri in February. The club won four out of 12 under Mazzarri and six of 12 under Rudi Garcia, who was hired after title-winning coach Luciano Spalletti left after last season.
Later, Hellas Verona was hosting Udinese in a matchup of teams who are one point above the relegation zone.
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Napoli’s soccer season has been nothing short of disappointing. The team’s struggles have continued with a lackluster performance that saw them fall to a 1-0 defeat against Empoli, leaving their title defense in shambles. The loss has sparked a wave of apologies from the team’s third coach this season, Francesco Calzona, who expressed regret to Napoli’s loyal fans.
The match against Empoli was a bitter pill to swallow for Napoli, as they failed to make any significant impact on the game. Empoli’s early goal put them in the driver’s seat, and Napoli’s feeble attempts to equalize fell short. Calzona admitted that the team’s performance was below par and emphasized the need for a stronger sense of pride among the players.
The defeat against Empoli has dealt a severe blow to Napoli’s hopes of qualifying for European competitions next season. Sitting in eighth place, a massive 34 points behind league leaders Inter Milan, Napoli’s season has been marred by inconsistency and underperformance. The team’s struggles have been evident throughout the campaign, with a lack of cohesion and a failure to replicate the form that saw them clinch the Serie A title last season.
Calzona’s tenure as coach has been marred by mixed results, with Napoli failing to find their rhythm under his guidance. The team’s inability to string together a series of positive results has left fans frustrated and questioning the direction of the club. Calzona acknowledged the fans’ disappointment and took full responsibility for the team’s shortcomings.
The situation at Napoli highlights the challenges that come with defending a league title. The pressure to perform consistently at the highest level can be daunting, and Napoli’s struggles serve as a cautionary tale for aspiring champions. The team’s failure to live up to expectations has left a bitter taste in the mouths of fans who had hoped for a successful title defense.
Looking ahead, Napoli must regroup and focus on finishing the season on a high note. With only five rounds remaining, there is still an opportunity to salvage some pride and end the season on a positive note. Calzona and his players must dig deep and find the motivation to finish the season strong, despite the setbacks they have faced.
In the world of soccer, success is never guaranteed, and every team must navigate through highs and lows. Napoli’s current struggles serve as a reminder of the challenges that come with competing at the highest level. Despite the setbacks, Napoli’s fans remain loyal and hopeful for a brighter future for their beloved club.
In conclusion, Napoli’s disappointing season has been a test of resilience and character for the team and its fans. The defeat against Empoli has further exacerbated their title defense woes, but there is still time to turn things around. With a renewed sense of determination and a commitment to excellence, Napoli can overcome this rough patch and emerge stronger in the seasons to come. The journey may be tough, but the rewards of perseverance and dedication are always worth it in the end.
