Conte Praises Atalanta, Admits They’re "Stronger Than Napoli" After 3-0 Loss
After Napoli’s tough 3-0 loss to Atalanta, coach Antonio Conte acknowledged the strength of Gian Piero Gasperini’s team, admitting that Atalanta is currently “stronger than we are.” The match, held at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in Naples, underscored the capabilities of a revitalized Atalanta squad, which dominated with a tactical advantage that even Conte, one of Serie A’s most respected managers, had to admire.
Reflecting on the match, Conte pointed out that the 3-0 scoreline might not entirely reflect Napoli’s overall effort. In the game, Napoli displayed a high-pressing style that showed their hunger, but they were ultimately outplayed in key moments that defined the game. Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman opened the scoring early, putting Napoli on the defensive, and Mateo Retegui later sealed the 3-0 victory with a stunning late volley.
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Conte’s approach for this match included benching key players like Mateo Retegui, a choice he described as a calculated decision to unsettle Napoli’s defense by reducing their clear reference points. However, despite these strategies, Conte found that Atalanta’s efficiency, particularly in their attacking setups, was a challenge for Napoli. He noted that while the game seemed balanced on paper, Atalanta’s ability to capitalize on goal-scoring opportunities and retain possession in critical moments set them apart.
Conte’s remarks about Atalanta emphasized his respect for their journey and capabilities. He mentioned that Atalanta has consistently proven themselves, both in the domestic league and on the European stage, with recent Champions League experience and an impressive Europa League win last season. Conte acknowledged that Atalanta’s consistency, led by their veteran coach Gasperini, gives them an edge in both depth and stability. For Conte, Gasperini’s years with Atalanta have established a foundation that Napoli, in its evolving phase, aspires to reach.
The loss marked only the second time Conte has endured a three-goal home defeat in his Serie A coaching career, with his first such defeat ironically also coming against Atalanta in 2009. This outcome, however, did not deter Conte’s commitment to refining his Napoli squad. He mentioned that the team would analyze this match and take it as a lesson, viewing Atalanta not as a rival to fear but as a benchmark to inspire Napoli’s growth.
Romelu Lukaku, a key player for Napoli, was tightly marked throughout the game, reducing his impact—a testament to Atalanta’s defensive focus. Conte also highlighted Napoli’s need to improve their final ball accuracy to convert their chances more effectively, acknowledging that while Napoli created strong positions, Atalanta was far more clinical.
In Conte’s view, this match is part of a larger journey, one that requires patience and perseverance as Napoli works to reclaim and build upon its championship-winning form. The loss to Atalanta might be a setback, but for Conte, it’s a constructive reminder of the work ahead in reaching the consistency and strength that a team like Atalanta currently displays.
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