Politano’s Good Form Continues
7-May-2018Â
Sassuolo-Sampdoria 1-0
Since Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis labelled him a waste of money, Matteo Politano has been in fine form. The comments were made on the back of his collapsed move to the Partonopei during the January transfer window. Prior to then, the Sassuolo winger’s form had been indifferent, but his rise has run parallel with that of his team and the 2 may not be a coincidence. He popped up again to net the winner to make it 7 from his last 8 games, and 9 for the season.
It’s a career high return for the 24 year old, who is fairing much better than strike partner Domenico Berardi. Despite playing well today, he can only brag of 3 goals (2 from penalties) this season and along with a collection of dismal performances, he seems to have lost his way. Talk of a transfer to Roma to reunite with mentor Di Francesco may be what’s needed to reignite his career.
Other noteworthy Italians for Sassuolo were Consigli, keeping a clean sheet, Sensi who had a good game in the center of midfield, meanwhile Dell’Orco exited injured after only 20 minutes. Acerbi, Adjapong, Missiroli and Peluso also played.
For Samp, Viviano, Sala, Quagliarella, and Caprari all got a taste of the turf at the Mapei Stadium and all put in sub-par performances.
Cagliari-Roma 0-1
Things are looking grim in Sardinia, particularly for the handful of promising young Italians who may find themselves relegated. A very likely prospect the way things stand. Among them, goalkeeper Cragno played well but could do nothing to prevent Roma’s winner. Barella had mixed reviews from Italy’s 3 main sports newspapers, as did Deiola and Farago’, while it was unanimously agreed that Pavoletti had a poor game. Marco Sau was ineffective off the bench.Â
There was a proud Serie A debut for Ugandan born, Italian youth international, Elio Capradossi. Standing in for Manolas who pulled out at the 11th hour, the defender gave a positive showing of himself before being subbed off on 70 minutes. Capitan De Rossi was the only other Italian starter with Florenzi coming off the bench. Midfield prodigee Lorenzo Pellegrini was on the bench, likely rested after having playing against Liverpool in the Champions League semi-final.
