Hamšík seals Napoli progression
Saturday, July 26, 2008
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SSC Napoli 1-0 Panionios GSS (agg: 2-0)
Marek Hamšík second-half goal secured the Italian side's first appearance in the UEFA Cup for 14 years.
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SSC Napoli progressed to the second qualifying round of the UEFA Cup after a second 1-0 victory over Panionios GSS courtesy of Marek Hamšík second-half strike the day before his 21st birthday.
Away chances
In front of more than 55,000 spectators, Napoli started confidently and bossed possession for the majority of the first half and Uruguayan midfielder Mariano Bogliacino had three sights on goal forcing away goalkeeper Dario Kresić to an excellent save with the last of them. However, it was the Greek side who had the best chance before half-time as striker Lampros Choutos hit the post with a close-range shot.
Overdue return
Panionios started the second period well but after 64 minutes, Napoli substitute Inácio Pià crossed for Argentinian striker Germán Denis whose precise header allowed Slovakian international Hamšík to fire in. The goal relaxed the home side and they played out the remainder of the match to book a place in the UEFA Cup 14 years after their last appearance in the competition.