Napoli coach Rafa Benitez described winning the Supercoppa Italiana 6-5 on penalties against Juventus as one of the best games of his life.
The Partenopei won the Supercoppa for only the second time after the match had ended 2-2 following extra time, and the Spaniard went on to emphasise the signficance of the triumph.
“It was one of the best games of my life,” he told Rai Sport. “To win it against a side like Juventus is remarkable.
“We dedicate this to all the Napoli fans who were with us today and watching from home.”
Benitez then went on to praise his players, including goalscorer Gonzalo Higuain and goalkeeper Rafael who saved two Juventus penalties.
“Dries Mertens had a bit of an ankle problem, so [Jonathan] de Guzman had to start,” he said.
“Rafael was excellent, [Gonzalo] Higuain made the difference in attack, but everyone worked so hard.
“In these shoot-out situations the goalkeeping coach is crucial; I am so happy for Rafael, Higuain and all the fans who had faith in us.
“We know that we can do something this season, it’s just an issue of carrying on and maintaining the same intensity.”
Napoli resume action in Serie A with an away trip to Cesena on January 6.
