Serie A, Sunday, DEC 15, 18:00 CET
Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia
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    Fonseca impressed by players' reactions


    Read what Paulo Fonseca had to say in the wake of Thursday's 2-0 win over Parma in the Coppa Italia.

    Lorenzo Pellegrini scored both goals on the night, as the Giallorossi booked a quarter-final meeting with Juventus next week.

    Did you want to bounce back quickly and get through to face Juventus in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals?

    "Yes, we played to win and get through to the next round to meet Juventus. It'll be a tough tie at their ground, but we must always take to the pitch to win."

    What are you particularly pleased about this evening?

    "I liked almost our entire performance. We did well defensively and also had chances to score in the first half. There were more openings in the second half and we managed to score twice. I enjoyed (Nikola) Kalinic's display. I thought he was fantastic and the best player on the park. Bryan (Cristante) did well, too."

    You've always played in a 4-2-3-1 formation, but Cristante dropped into the defensive line this evening. Is that an option we could see more of in the future?

    "It was the first time that we played like that, with Cristante at centre-back. I liked the way we started to build up the play. With a back three, we controlled Parma's counterattacks and attempts to get in behind, which they're always dangerous from. Bryan gave us extra quality when building the play. I liked our formation. I don't know if we'll play like that again, but it's certainly an option."

    What did you make of Lorenzo Pellegrini?

    "He's a fantastic guy and a real professional. He's a very important player in our team. He can play in different positions and is an intelligent footballer, so he's key for us."

    What's your message for Nicolo Zaniolo?

    "I send him by best wishes. This win is for him. We're sorry about his injury, but as I said, he has to stay strong and we have to support him."

    What do you think of Matteo Politano?

    "I can't talk about players who aren't in my squad until it's official."

    Do you need to score more goals?

    "We always create plenty of chances and that goes for the games against Torino and Juventus as well. We certainly did today. This team carves out openings and that's why I'm confident and relaxed. The goals will come. I'm also happy about the clean sheet this evening. I'm always pleased when we keep the opposition out."