Roma holds Napoli to a barren draw

 

After suffering a 6-1 defeat against Bodo/Glimt in the Europa Conference League during the midweek, AS Roma held Serie A leaders, Napoli to a barren draw at the Stadio Olimpico.

Reacting to the outcome of the game Roma boss, José Mourinho described the match as intense, adding that he even got tired on the bench.

The former Manchester United boss who got red-carded alongside his Napoli counterpart, Luciano Spalleti in the game also revealed that there will be punishment for five of his players.

Both coaches were sent off in the second half. Mourinho got red-carded with a second yellow card for dissent while Spalletti applauded was shown red for applauding referee Davide Massa for his control of the match.

Speaking with DAZN, Mourinho lauded his squad for their great concentration, and no fear, but respect for the opponent. While stating that the full-backs are improving, he said Veretout and Cristante provided good diagonal cover in the midfield.

He further lauded Zaniolo and Mkhitaryan for helping during the game despite being tired.

Not happy about the referee’s decision, Mourinho, who said he didn’t utter a word pointed out that no one was happy, but added that the referee was balanced.

In the game, it was noticed that part of the punishment given to Marash Kumbulla, Amadou Diawara, Riccardo Calafiori, Gonzalo Villar and Borja Mayoral was to be sent to the stands.

In the game against Napoli, that was seen as a strong decision and it worked at least to get him a point and stop the hundred percent record of the Azzurris.

Speaking on the emotional aspect of the game which saw him record his heaviest loss as manager, Mourinho said the decision he took are messages for the dressing room, adding that the 6-1 defeat will remain in his history and it’s difficult to forgive.

It is hoped that those five players will at least return to the bench when Roma returns to action Wednesday.

On his part, Spalletti said he was ‘devastated by the red card he was shown.

He noted that there couldn’t be any misunderstanding as he remained quiet for the whole game.

The unbeaten run of Napoli in the league continues. They now share the summit with  AC Milan.

Inter Milan and Juventus also met on Sunday, with the game finishing 1-1. Edin Dzeko put Inter Milan ahead in the 17th minute, but Paulo Dybala scored a late penalty to tie the game.

Written by: Oladipupo Mojeed