LUCIANO SPALLETTI admits Napoli overcame a 'tough challenge' as they saw off Rangers to secure back-to-back wins in the Champions League.
The Italians arrived at Ibrox in fine form at home and abroad as the Serie A leaders attempted to build on their 4-1 victory over Liverpool on Matchday One.
And Spalletti's side are now on course to progress to the knockout rounds this term after a 3-0 success continued their unbeaten start to the campaign.
Napoli had to recover from the blow of missing two penalties as Allan McGregor made brilliant blocks to deny Piotr Zieliński from the spot after James Sands was sent off.
But Matteo Politano made it third time lucky for the visitors as he beat McGregor from 12 yards before goals from Giacomo Raspadori and Tanguy Ndombele rounded off the win.
It was to prove a frustrating night for Giovanni van Bronckhorst's side but Spalletti was encouraged with another impressive showing from the Group A leaders.
Spalletti said: “It was a big win and I want to congratulate the players.
“We faced a tough challenge as Rangers were determined to impose themselves and bounce back. They tried to play a physical game and we did well to control play using our technical ability.
“It was the performance we were looking for. We showed quality and I think it was a mature display from the team.
“It was difficult out there for everyone. For me, what was crucial was the reaction after the two unconverted penalties.
"We showed that we have depth and personality. And I’d like to say that Zielinski was man-of-the-match even after the penalties.
“I appreciated the mental approach of the players. We are showing that we’ve grown. The players who came on played confidently and strongly.
"We’re pleased and happy with what we’re doing, but we need to stay calm and work hard. We’re top of the group but we’ve still got plenty of games to go.”
