Valery Kechinov, the former Spartak Moscow striker and Russia’s national team alumnus, weighed in on Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratshelia during the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Milan. The Georgian winger played 81 minutes without finding the back of the net, but Kechinov highlighted that the forward’s output is highly linked to the quality of his teammates, especially Victor Osimhen, who was sidelined by injury for this match.
Kechinov said, “Khvicha has a way of making Osimhen look even brighter, sharper, and more effective. Osimhen will be back soon, and it will be telling to see how Khvicha performs with him again. Right now, the team’s productivity hinges on having Osimhen in top form.”
Milan secured a 1-0 victory at home with Ismael Bennacer scoring the winning goal. The return leg is scheduled for April 18 in Naples. In the other quarter-final ties, Inter defeated Benfica 2-0, Chelsea were edged 0-2 by Real Madrid, and Manchester City overwhelmed Bayern Munich 3-0.
Looking ahead, the outcome of the Milan-Napoli tie appears closely tied to Osimhen’s health. Whether the Nigerian striker is able to return could heavily influence Kvaratshelia’s impact and Napoli’s chances of progressing in the competition.