Collecchio, 14 January 2023 – Here’s what Coach Domenico Panico had to say on the eve of Milan vs. Parma, which will kick off at 12:30 CET tomorrow.
There were some very positive signs against Inter…
“We produced a good performance against a strong side. The girls implemented what we’d planned during the week, and we’ve also prepared well this week. We know that tomorrow will also be a tough game; we’ll be up against another big side in the division. They’re in good form, but we’ll try to do well as we aim to improve our league position.”
Last Sunday’s performance proves that Parma are alive and kicking. If only Martinovic’s effort had gone in at the end…
“We could have picked up more points, but it means that we have to go out and get them in an even more convincing way, trying to make fewer mistakes and make the most of the chances that come our way. Melania was unlucky, but sooner or later things will go our way. If the team continue to display what they did against Inter, playing in a proactive fashion, I’m convinced that a win is around the corner.”
Tomorrow’s opponents
“Milan play in quite a direct manner. They have two very strong strikers in the middle and are a threat out wide, with their full-backs also joining in with the attack. The two midfielders also like to get forward. When they attack, they can inflict real damage. They’re also dangerous from set-pieces, something we need to pay attention to. They have a good shape, are big physically and attack spaces well. We need to try and limit them, countering sharply and in an organised way.”
Competition for places
“The team is more complete, allowing us to train better. The intensity of our sessions is increasing, as is the competition within the group. We finally have options all over the pitch, and we’ve worked hard in this respect. The girls are calm, but we know we need to start picking up points in the league. We need to produce an outstanding performance tomorrow because, I repeat, we’ll be up against one of the best sides in the division.”
We got to see Nicole Arcangeli in action in the Coppa Italia, although Margherita Brscic didn’t feature. Margrét Árnadóttir joined during the week…
“We shouldn’t put too much pressure on Arcangeli because she hasn’t really played since July. She’s done well so far and her fitness levels are improving. I’m expecting her to make further progress. Brscic is available. She was struggling for minutes at Genoa but has shown great application and is improving on a daily basis. Margrét Árnadóttir is a strong player and different from our other midfield players. She likes to attack the space and can be a weapon for us in possession. She’ll lend us a big hand as the season goes on.”
