|
|
Mertens: Let's not make Cavani bigger than he is
The Belgium international downplayed the importance of the Serie A star, while shot stopper Boy Waterman was delighted with PSV's victory, too
EXCLUSIVEBy Yorick Hokke
PSV attacker Dries Mertens was not too impressed with Napoli star Edinson Cavani in his side's 3-0 Europa League victory over Walter Mazzarri's side in Eindhoven.
The Uruguay international started the encounter from the bench, but replaced Omar El Kaddouri at half-time when Napoli were 2-0 behind.
Nevertheless, the 25-year-old was unable to turn things around as the Partenopei were easily beaten, and the Belgian stressed that the forward was unable to trouble PSV's defence.
"Let's not make Cavani any bigger than he really is. We simply put in a strong performance in defence," Mertens stated to Goal.com.
"Everybody says that Napoli were very poor, but we should not forget that we put in a great performance. We dominated proceedings from the first until the final whistle.
"Napoli might have fielded some reserves, but the guys who did play are all good players, too."
Meanwhile, shot stopper Boy Waterman was equally pleased with PSV's victory over Napoli at the Philips Stadium.
"You don't expect to have such a quiet night when you meet Napoli. We played a great game, though, and you can only be satisfied when you record a 3-0 victory."
PSV sit joint second in Group F of the Europa League with three points from two games.
Related Stories
-
Goal interviews Katlego Mashego
Goal speaks with the current PSL top goalscorer Katlego Mashego who talks about his career at Moroka Swallows, the feeling of finishing as top goalscorer and his return to the national team
-
Top 10 all-time Champions League scorers
As the competition moves within days of its much-anticipated conclusion at Wembley, Goal profiles the most prolific players in its history
-
Fortune: Man Utd should sign African players
The former South Africa international believes it is about time the Red Devils opened their doors to a lot of African players, despite the pain that comes with it during Afcon
-
'Mario, you will never redeem yourself'
Mario Gotze's injury means the playmaker has now played his final game for Borussia Dortmund. In an open letter, a fan tells of his emotion at his controversial switch to Bayern
-
Feature: Khune's season review 2012-13
The Kaizer Chiefs captain displayed both his leadership skills and goalkeeping ability in what proved to be an exceptional 2012/2013 season for the 25-year-old