Napoli captain Marek Hamsik is delighted to have reached the Champions League group phase.

Napoli beat Nice 2-0 last night to seal their place in the group stage, comfortably winning the tie 4-0 on aggregate.

“We were able to prove we're a great team and we deserved to qualify for the Champions League," Hamsik wrote on his official website.

“Being among the best teams in Europe is the reward for our excellent performance.

“Last season we played against Real Madrid, we achieved a record 86 points but still didn't qualify directly for the Champions League.

“We proved on the pitch that our place is among the best teams on the Old Continent. We'll see how the draw goes, now we have our moment to celebrate but then we have to focus on Sunday's game with Atalanta.

“We're happy, but our thoughts go to those affected by the Ischia earthquake. On behalf of the team, I want to extend my sincere condolences to the families of the victims."