Image Credits: Imago Images
Napoli’s Champions League campaign took a severe blow on Tuesday night as they suffered a 6-2 defeat to PSV Eindhoven at the Philips Stadion.
Despite taking the lead through Scott McTominay’s header in the 31st minute, the Italian side conceded six unanswered goals, including an own goal by Alessandro Buongiorno and strikes from Ismael Saibari, Dennis Man, Ricardo Pepi, and Couhaib Driouech.
The match also saw Lorenzo Lucca receive a red card in the 76th minute, compounding Napoli’s woes.
In the aftermath of the heavy defeat, Italian media outlets have highlighted McTominay’s individual performance as a rare positive for Napoli.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Tuttomercatoweb awarded the Scottish midfielder a 6.5/10 rating, noting his return to the starting lineup after an absence and his contribution to Napoli’s early lead.
The report stated, “Returning after his absence in Turin, he found the back of the net with a fine run and a header, also scoring a brace in the same manner.
“He was generally among the most active players, as Napoli remained in the game.
“He occasionally switched flanks to disrupt the opposition’s defensive line, but without the desired outcome.”
Similarly, Corriere dello Sport praised McTominay’s efforts, describing him as “the only one to survive” the team’s collapse.
The publication highlighted his two goals, stating, “The only one to survive was Scott McTominay, who scored the two goals that finally brought them back to an acceptable level.”
Other media outlets echoed these sentiments, with CalcioNapoli24 noting McTominay as “the only one in midfield to maintain a minimum of order and pride.”
Il Mattino also singled out McTominay as the “only bright spot” in an otherwise dismal performance.
Despite McTominay’s individual success, Napoli’s collective performance raised concerns.
While Scott McTominay, who moved to Napoli from United, brace provided a glimmer of hope for Napoli, the team’s overall performance in the 6-2 defeat to PSV Eindhoven highlighted significant tactical and defensive issues.
As the team looks to recover, McTominay’s individual contributions remain a positive takeaway amidst the challenges faced by Napoli in this Champions League campaign.