Napoli started their Serie A campaign with a 2-0 win over Parma with Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens getting the goals that helped them to the win.
However it was the introduction of Victor Osimhen, the club record signing that turned the game on it’s head as he brought pace, urgency and direction to the attack of Napoli which didn’t have a single shot on target prior to his introduction in the 60th minute.
Speaking after the game, Mertens credited Osimhen for the change in their attack which led to the 2-0 win despite the 21 year old not getting among the scorers in what was his first game in the Italian Serie A in Napoli’s colours.
“Playing at midday is difficult, it was hot and the pitch wasn’t in good shape. We made too many mistakes in the first half, but did better after the break,” Mertens told DAZN.
“We didn’t do badly in the first half either, and Parma defended well, but when they tired and the spaces opened up, it changed the game.”
“It’s true we signed a young player who can make the difference, but we have others in the squad who can make the difference too. Andrea Petagna did really well in pre-season training and I think he can play an important part for us too.
“We haven’t really talked about what comes next, but the coach really wanted to win the first game. We even trained in Naples at midday to prepare for this and it was very hot indeed, but we got through it.
“My objective is to win, after that to score a goal, so I achieved both. I’m happy.”
