Napoli are in dire need of a win against AC Milan in the quarterfinal of the Champions League, and Osimhen would look to do the damage for his side
Inter Milan legend Beppe Bergomi believes that the absence of Kim Min-Jae and Zambo Anguissa could affect Napoli despite the return of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen sustained an injury while on international duty with Nigeria in March. Because of the setback, he missed the Partenopeans’ first three games after the resumption of club football.
In his absence, Napoli lost two games and won one. Two of those losses were against AC Milan. Napoli lost 4-0 to the Rossoneri in the Serie A. Then they succumbed to a 1-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal clash.
However, Osimhen returned on Sunday in Napoli’s 0-0 draw against Hellas Verona. The Nigerian striker played 20 minutes in the game, and he almost scored but for the woodwork.
The 24-year-old point man is expected to lead the line for Napoli when they welcome AC Milan to the Diego Maradona for the second leg of their tie. However, Luciano Spalletti would be without two of his most influential players. Kim Min-Jae and Zambo Anguissa are suspended for the tie, and Spalletti would have to find alternatives.
“Napoli is well structured regardless of the center forward,” Bergomi said per Napoli Magazine.
“Definitely, having Osimhen gives you a sense of security, but you can’t think that it will solve all your problems.
“Napoli have two very important absences with Milan because they lack the two most physical players. Physicality has always been a problem for Napoli, this year they tried to make up for it, but in the past, they suffered.
“Milan are a team that takes you a lot from a physical point of view, on the individual duel and marking.”
The tie is a tricky one for the Partenopeans. They defeated AC Milan earlier in the season, but they have lost the last two meetings.
Osimhen adds a lot of bite to the attack, and his link-up with Kvaratskhelia has been superb this season. That could eventually come into play.
However, Napoli would have to keep it tight at the back if they want to qualify for the next round.
This post was last modified on April 17, 2023 8:03 am