Benitez relishing Higuain-Balotelli duel

Rafael Benitez is looking forward to pitting Gonzalo Higuain against Mario Balotelli when Napoli travel to AC Milan on Sunday.

Higuain has been an instant hit in Naples, scoring three goals in four games since completing a €37 million switch from Real Madrid this summer, while Rossoneri talisman Mario Balotelli remains his side's main goal threat.

And despite admitting the pair alone will not decide the match, Benitez has underlined how important a win could be for Napoli's title aspirations.

We’re talking about a very strong team [Milan]. Mario Balotelli and Gonzalo Higuain are both excellent forwards of a very high level, the 53-year-old told reporters before the match.

I’m satisfied with Gonzalo, just as Milan are with Balotelli, but I think this clash will be decided by the collective and not individuals.

Milan are a side with a great attacking mentality and players who can make the difference. I played two Champions League finals against them with Liverpool.

A victory for Napoli would confirm we are on the right track. We’re still at the start of the season and have a lot of improvements to make as we're still only at 70% of their potential.