Napoli coach apologizes to fans after lackluster loss at Empoli worsens title defense
ROME (AP) — 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.”
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.”
Related articles
Seoul AI summit opens with companies including Google, Meta, OpenAI pledging to develop AI safely
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The world’s leading artificial intelligence companies pledged at the start2024-05-22School buildings: Central Auckland school left with no gym for years
Auckland Girls' Grammar principal Ngaire Ashmore and the unusable gymnasium. Photo: Supplied2024-05-22Peru protests block access to Machu Picchu, stranding tourists
By Lucinda Elliott, ReutersRiot police guard the entrance to the trail leading to the ruins from Mac2024-05-22On Your Side: Survey reveals many college students carry credit
On Your Side: College students and credit-card debt 03:382024-05-22Singapore Airlines: 1 dead, others injured after London
BANGKOK (AP) — A Singapore Airlines flight hit severe turbulence over the Indian Ocean and descended2024-05-22Couple swapped the U.S for Germany 'to be near the most beautiful mountains in the world'
A couple who relocated to live out their dream in the Alps reveal pictures of their new life in the2024-05-22
atest comment