Reina hopes for San Paolo comforts

Napoli goalkeeper Pepe Reina believes their Champions League tie with Real Madrid ‘isn’t over’ and home advantage could prove decisive for the Italians.

Lorenzo Insigne’s early goal set the Neapolitans up for a potentially memorable night at the Bernabeu before Karim Benzema, Toni Kroos and Casemiro netted to put Zinedine Zidane’s side – who also spurned a number of other opportunities – in control.

“We faced a great Real Madrid side and congratulate them, but having said that, it’s not over,” Reina told reporters at the Bernabeu after the match.

“They won’t find the atmosphere easy to deal with in the second leg.

"With the warmth of our stadium, we will be 11 brave men who have nothing to lose. We have to believe we can turn the tie around because we can beat Madrid 2-0 at home."

The former Barcelona and Villarreal goalkeeper also spoke of Diego Maradona’s appearance in the away side’s dressing room before the game, apparently giving a team talk.

“Maradona encouraged us and told us to play for our fans,” Reina continued.

Meanwhile, he was questioned on criticism from Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis towards Coach Maurizio Sarri and his squad after the final whistle.

“We hadn’t lost a game since October and he didn’t speak then…”

Tags Napoli Pepe Reina
La Liga - Club News