In surreal circumstances, Napoli lifted the 2020 Coppa Italia last night after beating Juventus on penalties. The Italian cup competition has been used as a precursor to the return of top-flight action to the country.
Napoli Lift the Coppa Italia against a lacklustre Juventus
Napoli who got past Inter Milan in their semi-final had to collect the trophy themselves in order to commence the celebrations, all of this was carried out in front of an empty Stadio Olimpico, as is the way under the new safety protocols.
Sarri’s Men Continue Inconsistencies
Penalties seemed an inevitable conclusion to the final after a hard-fought 0-0 inside normal time, fitness levels seemed low and clear chances were few and far between.
In the shootout Pablo Dybala and Danilo both failed to convert for Juventus, leaving it to Napoli’s Polish forward Arkadiusz Milik to score the winning spot-kick.
It was to be Genaro Gattuso’s first trophy as a manager and another missed opportunity for Maurizio Sarri, who’s only silverware remains his Europa League triumph during his time at Chelsea.
Juventus boss Sarri has criticized star man Cristiano Ronaldo following the defeat; accusing the three-time Ballon d’Or winner of ‘lacking sharpness’
New Goals Ahead
Juventus’ attention will now turn to Serie A matters. The reigning champions only hold a one-point lead over Lazio going into the final 12 matches. In what would be Juventus’ ninth consecutive title Sarri will be looking for an improved performance from his men.
Napoli will hope their triumph leads to an impressive run in, as the Naples club are currently outside of the Champions League qualification place, sitting sixth. Nine points adrift of Atalanta in the final spot.
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