Former Juventus and AC Milan coach Fabio Capello opines that Napoli failed to capitalize on Barcelona’s vulnerability during the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16 encounter. Capello also expresses discontent with referee Danny Makkelie’s performance, stating that he disapproved. Napoli endured a 3-1 defeat against Barcelona on Tuesday, resulting in their elimination from the Champions League. Capello provided an analysis of Napoli’s defeat during Sky Sport Italia’s post-match program on the same day.
“The defence was not aggressive enough and if you are not focused on the man, Barcelona can easily find a way to score. It was a poor defensive performance, as we’ve seen in Serie A,” said the ex-coach, as quoted by AreaNapoli.
Victor Osimhen faced criticism from Italian media subsequent to Napoli’s defeat, with Capello expressing dissatisfaction with the performance of the Nigerian international.
“He was flagged offside six times in the first half and went unnoticed in the second half,” he said.
“It was not the same Osimhen we usually see. He struggled against Barcelona defenders and only won one aerial duel. Barcelona’s weak point was the defence, and he could not emerge.”
Capello asserted that Napoli merited a penalty kick during the latter half of the match, citing a possible foul committed against their prominent forward.
“I feel Napoli deserved a penalty, I didn’t like the referee,” concluded Capello.
Napoli’s elimination from the Champions League also signifies their inability to secure a place in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, thereby creating an opportunity for their Serie A counterparts, Juventus.