Legendary coach Arrigo Sacchi praised Milan and Napoli for their performances in the first leg of the Champions League’s quarter-finals, underlining in particular the heightened intensity of the match compared to Serie A’s standards. The gaffer dished on the game to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Luciano Spalletti’s team pulled the strings at the start of the matches, creating a few chances, and Mike Maignan was excellent. However, the Rossoneri resisted and countered, which led to their goal. Brahim Diaz was very good. In my opinion, he has found his ideal position on the right flank. Both sides were courageous and willing to push beyond their limits. The first half was worthy of the international stage.”
Sacchi pointed out that the contest slowed down after intermission.
“The dip was evident, also because many players lacked energy. They were less sharp, and the pace suffered. Napoli’s mistake was to get nervous, which culminated in Frank Anguissa’s red card. He was naïve. However, Milan were unable to exploit their one-man advantage. On the contrary, Napoli had the biggest chance and could have equalized, but Maignan pulled off another great save.”
Sacchi didn’t name his favorites to reach the semi-finals.
“I don’t think it’s possible to do it right now. The bout still hangs in the balance. The Azzurri will be able to lean on the support of their fans, and that’s meaningful for a team that has to stage a comeback. I continue to think that each side has a 50 percent chance of going through.”
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