Benitez hoping to overturn deficit to face Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia final.
Napoli host AS Roma on Wednesday night with coach Rafa Benitez insisting that he “wants to win” with the club as he eyes his first piece of silverware since moving to Naples.
The Partenopei must overturn a 3-2 deficit if they are to progress and set up a date with Fiorentina in the final in May, but with confidence high after their win over AC Milan at the weekend, they will undoubtedly believe that it is possible.
Legendary Argentinian striker Gabriel Batistuta claimed this week that Gonzalo Higuain was a “more complete striker” compared to Edinson Cavani, as reported by Goal.com, with the former Real Madrid star contributing with assists as well as crucial goals this season.
He will be determined to add to his tally against Roma, with Benitez insisting that although it will be difficult, he believes his players can do it.
“I’m happy and I want to win, that’s always my approach,” he told reporters at a press conference, according to Football Italia.
“This is a chance to do that and to get to the final would be perfect. Roma are a tough obstacle though.”
Having already lost twice to their rivals this season, the Spaniard has played up the importance the supporters will have during the game, and has called upon them to produce a hostile environment with just a goal separating the two teams.
Benitez did hint at squad rotation in his press conference, and it is possible that either Gokhan Inler or Jorginho, or both, will be rested in favour of Valon Behrami and Blerim Dzemaili to provide protection in front of the defence.
Jose Callejon is another debatable starter, but given Dries Mertens’ impact last week, the Belgian will be expected to support Higuain with Lorenzo Insigne possibly fielded on the opposite flank.
Marek Hamsik is perhaps the player to keep an eye on though, as the Slovakian ace has a tendency to deliver in big moments and the threat of his forward runs could prove vital to Napoli’s chances.
The first meeting between these two teams was a thrilling and open encounter, and fortunately for the neutrals the second promises to be no different with Rudi Garcia insisting that Roma will play to win the game.
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