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29 December 2024

Napoli Engages Fans Ahead Of Venezia Showdown

Antonio Conte reflects on team's progress and holiday distractions before key Serie A clash.

Napoli Gears Up for Crucial Fixture Against Venezia

Serie A title contenders Napoli are set to host Venezia at the iconic Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, aiming for their third consecutive victory on December 29, 2024. With the team coming off wins against Udinese and Genoa, Napoli is eager to close out the year on a high note. Venezia, though placed near the bottom of the table, is currently unbeaten in its last three games, including a recent victory over Cagliari, making for what could be a challenging match.

Looking at Napoli's lineup, coach Antonio Conte will miss defender Alessandro Buongiorno due to injury. Juan Jesus is expected to fill his place alongside Rrahmani, with the full-back positions likely to see Di Lorenzo and Olivera. The return of promising winger Kvaratskhelia to the starting eleven hints at possible strategic shifts, particularly considering the illness of Politano, who is predicted to start from the bench. The rest of the squad sees Lukaku leading the front line, supported by McTominay and the duo of Anguissa and Lobotka holding the midfield.

Napoli's projected starting lineup features the following formation (4-2-3-1): Meret; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Juan Jesus, Olivera; Lobotka, Anguissa; Politano, McTominay, Kvaratskhelia; Lukaku.

On the other hand, Venezia, managed by Eusebio Di Francesco, faces significant challenges with the absences of Duncan and Svoboda, both key players who contribute to the team's quality and leadership. Di Francesco is likely to deploy Idzes at the center of defense alongside Altare and Sverko. Nicolussi Caviglia and Andersen should form the midfield, with contention for the left flank between Haps and Ellertsson. Oristanio and Busio will operate behind striker Pohjanpalo.

Venezia's expected lineup is (3-4-2-1): Stankovic; Altare, Idzes, Sverko; Zampano, Nicolussi Caviglia, Andersen, Haps; Oristanio, Busio; Pohjanpalo.

Conte kicked off his pre-match press conference by extending solidarity to journalist Cecilia Sala, who has recently faced legal troubles abroad. He emphasized the role of football as not just entertainment but also as a platform for compassion and support during challenging times.

During the press conference, Conte addressed his team's recent performances, explaining the importance of reflecting on their game against Genoa. "We need to look at the glass as half full and focus on the first half against Genoa. The second half serves as motivation to improve. We have responsible players who evaluate their performances, and they are eager to grow and raise their game," he expressed.

With 38 points and currently sitting second in the Serie A standings, Conte acknowledged the progress made compared to the start of the season. He remains ambitious, not settling for minimum goals. "I never like to settle for minimal achievements. We have to continue working seriously and diligently to keep improving," he reiterated.

The coach expressed his desire to end the year joyfully for both the team and fans, stating, "I hope to conclude 2024 by providing another joy to our supporters. It’s been five months of intense experiences, and I am genuinely enjoying every moment coaching such passionate supporters."

When asked about the potency of the attacking trio, including the combination of Kvaratskhelia and David Neres with Lukaku up front, Conte responded cautiously, indicating flexibility within his roster for different match scenarios: "Every player can be part of the starting eleven. Depending on the opponent’s setup, we might see the duo together at some point."

Conte was also aware of the potential pitfalls against Venezia, particularly the distractions surrounding holiday festivities which could affect focus. He stressed, "This fixture is during the holiday season, and it can be easy to underestimate our opponents just because they are lower on the table. We must be serious and apply ourselves fully to secure these three important points."

Despite debate surrounding the title race, Conte deemed it premature to label Napoli as title contenders just yet, citing the necessity of focusing on each match. He smiled, joking about his mathematical confidence with remaining points to be earned. "We must gather points match by match and aim to disturb those at the top. That’s our primary objective!"

Importantly, he also recognized the evolution within Serie A, noting the league's heightened competitive intensity. "The quality has significantly improved, enhancing the league's allure and difficulty, making every match, even against lower-ranked teams, challenging. To be considered successful, you need to earn your victories against these teams," he explained.

One standout player earning attention is Romelu Lukaku, who has been gradually finding his rhythm. Conte commented on the pressures faced by Lukaku, recognizing his need to manage expectations. "Romelu is one of the twenty-one players on the team. He’s now at peak fitness, but with his history, expectations are exceedingly high. He needs to maintain his form and manage those expectations seamlessly."

Ahead of the match, the enthusiasm among fans was evident, as Conte himself took time to connect with supporters, highlighting their aspiration for another Scudetto title. The mixture of hope and anticipation provides the promise of what could be another thrilling matchup on the pitch.