Francesco Calzona’s era at Napoli began with a baptism fire as the Italian champions hosted Barcelona at the Stadio Maradona in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. Following a dull first half, the encounter came to life after the interval, with Robert Lewandowski drawing first blood. Nevertheless, Victor Osimhen marked his return to the Partenopei lineup with the all-important equalizer, leaving the tie up for grabs ahead of the second leg. So here are our player ratings for Napoli who registered a 1-1 draw at home against Barcelona.
Napoli (4-3-3)
Alex Meret – 7
Although he was beaten by Lewandowski’s low drive in the second half, the Italian goalkeeper had kept his side in the match with a string of brilliant saves in the first period.
Giovanni Di Lorenzo – 5.5
The Napoli captain struggled at the back. He almost gifted Pedri an easy goal with a weak header. He also couldn’t close in on Lewandowski in time to prevent the goal.
Amir Rrahmani – 5.5
The Kosovan did well for the most part, but he shouldn’t have broken the defensive line by rushing out of the box on Barcelona’s goal. This blunder gave the Polish striker just enough time and space to inflect the damage.
Juan Jesus – 6.5
A solid outing from the Brazilian veteran who was often first to the ball when facing Lewandowski.Tried his best to cover on Rrahmani but couldn’t prevent the goal.
Mathias Olivera – 6
The Uruguayan initially had a torrid time against Lamine Yamal, but he eventually managed to contain the 16-year-old sensation.
André-Frank Zambo Anguissa – 6.5
The Cameroonian certainly did his due in the middle of the park. Provided the assist for the Napoli equalizer with a rather simple pass.
Stanislav Lobotka – 6.5
The Slovakian started on a slow note, but eventually began to find his rhythm thus improving Napoli’s quality of play.
Jens Cajuste – 5
The Swede hardly made himself noticed in both phases of the game. failing to justify his inclusion. Left his place on the pitch in the middle of the season half.
Matteo Politano – 5.5
The Italian winger worked hard for the team and kept Cancelo on his toes, but couldn’t truly find his shooting or crossing range in the final third.
Victor Osimhen – 7
It was a frustrating night for the Nigerian who was impeded by the lack of service. But only needed half a chance to put his name on the scoresheet. Beat Inigo Martinez with his clever timing and strength before wrongfooting ter Stegen to mark his Napoli return with a crucial equalizer.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – 5
A disappointing outing from last season’s Serie A MVP who was hauled off in the middle of the second half after failing to impose himself on the left flank against Jules Koundé. Watching him leave the pitch in anger has become a familiar sight.
Substitutes
Hamed Traoré – 6
The former Sassuolo man added some energy to the middle of the park, albeit he only saw little of the ball.
Jesper Lindstrom – 6.5
This was an impactful substitute from the new Napoli manager. The Dane instigated the equalizer after replacing Kvaratskhelia.
Giovanni Simeone – N/A
Giacomo Raspadori – N/A
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