“I’m feeling positive. We’re playing in a world-renowned stadium against a world-class team. It’ll be a real litmus test for us and a really challenging game. It could give us momentum for the rest of the season.” Captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was interviewed by the press ahead of Napoli’s clash against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
“It’ll be my first time playing at the Bernabeu – it’s sure to be an emotional occasion. We became footballers precisely to experience such amazing matches and tomorrow we’ll need to show that we’re more than up to the task in this competition.”
Vinicius Junior is out injured for Real Madrid. Does that mean there’s one fewer opponent you’ll have to worry about?
“Real Madrid have a top squad. I’m not sure who will play but we’ll have to defend as a team. It won’t be just down to us defenders.
“In the first match I made a mistake with their opening goal, but in general it was an even game in which we deserved more.
“I can’t compare it to the fixture at the Maradona – I reckon that it’ll be a different kettle of fish. We’ll need to be bold and play our game. We can’t just go out there to defend – we’ve got to make things happen as well.”
Which player from your squad would you swap for a Real Madrid player?
"With all due respect to the wonderful club that Real Madrid are I’ve got full faith in my team-mates. I know what this group of players has to offer and we’re working hard to further improve.”
Has your away win over Atalanta given you a boost of newfound confidence?
“Wins help teams to work better. We played great against Atalanta and we won the match. We’ve got to take this mentality moving forward. We’re ready to play our game tomorrow in what will be an electric atmosphere.”
