Conte hails ‘extraordinary’ Napoli after gritty win over Juventus
Antonio Conte says Napoli’s resilience in the face of an injury crisis “fills me with pride” after his depleted squad delivered a high-intensity 2-1 victory over Juventus.
The performance, built on tactical discipline and relentless work rate, extended Napoli’s unbeaten home run in Serie A for the entire 2025 calendar year, a feat last achieved in 1987.
Rasmus Hojlund struck twice to secure the win at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, cancelling out Juventus’ only real effort on target from Kenan Yildiz.
Conte was unequivocal in his praise, stressing that his squad’s mentality has been the difference during a challenging spell.
Conte praises Napoli for win over Juventus – Getty image
‘They are doing incredible things’
Speaking to DAZN Italia, Conte credited his players for stepping up despite limited options.
“The players deserve all the compliments. In a moment of extreme difficulty and with so few available, we are doing incredible things,” he said.
He highlighted the team’s growing sense of responsibility, pointing to the way every player recognised the moment and responded decisively.
Scott McTominay, who repeatedly required treatment in the first half, pushed through the discomfort to finish the match, a gesture Conte described as emblematic of the group’s attitude.
He also singled out Eljif Elmas, impressive on his first Serie A start in midfield.
Navigating the injury storm
Conte confirmed that Stanislav Lobotka is dealing with a minor issue expected to sideline him for 10-15 days, a relief given earlier fears.
The coach emphasised that, despite the setbacks, his staff and players have found effective solutions by leaning on unity, tactical clarity and a strong collective spirit.
With Napoli also beating Roma and Inter during this injury-heavy period, Conte admitted he remains “stunned by the enthusiasm and energy” across the squad.
High-press blueprint paying off
The coach reiterated the value of an aggressive defensive structure. “If we can press high, then we have to do it.
Defending by pushing forward avoids risks,” he said, noting that Juventus managed only two attempts on target.
Conte added that several attacking sequences were “impressive moves prepared on the training ground.”
Focus shifts to Benfica
Napoli now head into a short rest window before flying to Portugal to face Benfica in the Champions League.
Conte acknowledged the need to maximise recovery time: “We’ve got two days and then Benfica. We’ll prepare in front of the whiteboard, because these lads need a break physically.”
