Napoli heads to Como this weekend, eyeing important points as they hope to break free from their streak of three consecutive draws. The match, set to kick off at 11:30 GMT at the Stadio Sinigaglia, carries significant weight for the Partenopei, especially with Inter temporarily at the top of the table after their recent win over Genoa.
With the Scudetto showdown against Inter looming next weekend, the pressure is mounting. Coach Antonio Conte has strategized wisely, presenting what looks to be a formidable lineup against Como. Key players for Napoli this week include Romelu Lukaku and Giacomo Raspadori, forming the attacking duo upfront, supported by Scott McTominay, who will be making his Serie A debut.
The 3-5-2 formation showcases Matteo Politano as the right-sided winger, which should provide additional width and attack options. Injuries have affected the squad, with David Neres, Pasquale Mazzocchi, and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa all unable to participate. Philip Billing, freshly arrived on loan from AFC Bournemouth, replaces Anguissa, marking his official debut for Naples.
Billing’s inclusion appears to be both tactical and strategic, as noted by Repubblica. The aim, as they report, is to give Billing confidence as well as to protect Anguissa, who is on the brink of suspension after receiving yellow cards recently. Meanwhile, Leonardo Spinazzola has recovered sufficiently to make his return to the left flank.
Como will also be eager to impress after surprising everyone with a 2-0 victory over Fiorentina recently, breaking their three-match losing streak. The home side is dealing with their own injury woes, missing key figures such as Sergi Roberto and Dele Alli. Despite these absences, Nico Paz and Assane Diao have shown promise, leading Como’s attack.
The Como lineup will pursue Napoli with their own 4-3-2-1 formation, featuring Gabriel Strefezza and the highly rated Nico Paz supporting Diao. Fans can expect Como to put up a resilient defense, potentially aiming to capitalize on any lapses from the Partenopei.
There is palpable excitement among Napoli supporters, with approximately 1,000 fans expected to travel for the match. Tuttonapoli.net emphasized the importance of the fan presence, increasing the stakes for Conte’s men, who need the backing of their supporters as they strive for success this season.
With the table tightly contested, every point matters as Napoli seeks to climb back up and challenge for the title. The fact remains: this match against Como isn’t just another fixture on the calendar; it can be pivotal for their morale and momentum as they venture forward.
Given all these aspects, the match against Como is steeped with anticipation. Napoli must leverage its star players, adapt to its tactical nuances, and banish the cloud of draws previously looming over them. How they navigate this challenge will be telling for their future ambitions, particularly with Inter lurking just around the corner.