Ezequiel Lavezzi says Napoli have taken themselves a step up after progress to the Champions League knockouts.

Lavezzi believes the victory over Villarreal represents "the step up in quality" for Napoli.

"The important thing was to get through the group phase. We managed it and this is a crucial victory for everyone," said Lavezzi.

"I think today we made the step up in quality as a team. Our group was incredibly hard and we proved tonight that when we're in good shape, we are a tough side to beat."