Napoli coach apologizes to fans after lackluster loss at Empoli worsens title defense

ROME (AP) — Napoli’s title defense is going from bad to worse.

The team’s third coach this season apologized to fans following a disheartening 1-0 loss at relegation-threatened Empoli on Saturday that left Napoli at risk of failing to qualify for Europe.

Napoli remained in eighth place, a whopping 34 points behind leader Inter Milan with only five rounds remaining.

“We need to work on our pride — more than tactics at this point,” Napoli coach Francesco Calzona said. “I want to apologize to Napoli’s fans.”

Alberto Cerri scored four minutes in with a header for Empoli, which moved four points clear of the drop zone.

Napoli’s only shot on goal came midway through the second half when Kvicha Kvaratskhelia slalomed past two defenders before launching his effort. Empoli goalkeeper Elia Caprile pushed the shot wide.

“Empoli came out with ferociousness. We came out soft and were timid,” Calzona said. “It’s inconceivable but it’s my responsibility. Evidently, I didn’t transmit the desire to give our all.”