Atalanta vs Napoli preview - Cavani vows to build on City success

Posted Saturday, November 26, 2011 by PA

Napoli striker Edinson Cavani is confident his team can end a fantastic week on a high when they make the journey to Bergamo to face Atalanta in Serie A.

The Naples outfit held Lazio to a goalless draw last weekend to climb to seventh in the standings before taking one step towards qualification for the Champions League last 16 in a 2-1 win over Manchester City in midweek.

Wednesday's result at the Stadio San Paolo allowed Napoli to go second in Group A with one game remaining.

The Italians travel to Villarreal on December 7 knowing they just need to match City's result at home to group leaders Bayern Munich in order to progress to the next round.

"We showed against City that we have the mentality of a big club," said Cavani, who scored both of his team's two goals against City.

"I am delighted to have given our fans a lot of joy. I think Napoli can aim for anything this season.

"Now we must pick up where we left off and give continuity to this fantastic result."

Walter Mazzarri's men will not take Atalanta lightly with the Bergamaschi unbeaten at home this season and having lost just once in their last six games.

The visitors will have to keep a close eye on former Napoli striker German Denis.

The Argentinian is the top scorer in Serie A this season with nine goals and has warned Napoli his best is yet to come.

"I hope the most beautiful goal that I've scored will be the winner on Saturday night against Napoli," said Denis.

"But the important thing is that we win."

The hosts, who are 13th in the standings, will have to overcome the absence of pivotal defender Daniele Capelli.

He was injured in last weekend's 2-2 draw at Siena and underwent surgery on Wednesday to reconstruct his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. The Italian defender will be out of action for six months.