In comments reported by Gazzetta dello Sport, boss Sarri said: "We have improved a lot from the point of view of the attack, we have controlled the game better.

"We have to perfect the defensive phase that with 4-3-1-2 is not easy. But I have seen progress in the ability to attack and create opportunities.

"In a game where you go behind after four minutes in an environment full of enthusiasm, it was not easy. Good personality, good attack, we still need to make progress on the defensive phase."

Pjanic hailed a job ultimately well done, saying: "We must try to be more dangerous in the last 20 metres to be able to score more but we are happy with these three points.

"It takes patience, we continue to work. Every year there are criticisms and expectations, the team is quiet and continues to work day by day. The championship is long but the road is the right one."

Brescia boss Eugenio Corini felt his side were unfortunate to come away from the match with nothing.

He said: "When you play against such a strong and quality team it is always difficult.

"Apart from the goal we developed the match well, they drew level from a corner kick, then in the second half chances on both sides. As we have seen, we deserved something more."

Corini was impressed by Mario Balotelli on his debut, saying: "He arrived with the right motivation.

"He is an extraordinary player, he will certainly give us a great helping hand. The closeness to home is good for him and I see him very involved."