Napoli relishing Chelsea test

Italians looking forward to meeting Blues in last 16

By Nadia Carminati.   Last Updated: December 16, 2011 3:01pm

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Napoli sporting director Riccardo Bigon has described the club's upcoming tie against Chelsea as a 'sensational challenge' after drawing the Blues in the UEFA Champions League last 16.

The Italians will play Andre Villas-Boas' men over two legs after they were drawn against them in the first knockout stage on Friday.

The Blues will travel to the Stadio San Paolo on 21st February before entertaining the Partenopei at Stamford Bridge on 14th March.

The encounter is expected to be tightly contested, with Chelsea anticipating a "difficult" tie, according to club secretary David Barnard.

But club chief Bigon says Napoli are relishing the prospect of taking on the Premier League heavyweights.

Challenge

"For us the aim is to get to the quarter-finals," said Bigon. "This match will be a big challenge against a really big side in European football.

"This is a sensational challenge in a big stadium and we're counting on big enthusiasm.

"We've got awareness and we can play against anyone. We know different teams have had different experiences and all the rest but we are able to cope with these pressures."