AS Roma and SSC Napoli are set to clash at the Stadio Olimpico this Sunday night, in what promises to be another thrilling edition of the iconic Derby del Sole.
Both teams are gearing up for the pivotal Serie A match, as the stakes could not be higher for either side. Roma, under the management of Claudio Ranieri, is desperate to earn three points to move closer to securing European football next season. Meanwhile, Napoli, managed by Antonio Conte, sits atop the league table and is eager to maintain their lead amid tight competition.
Roma enters this encounter fresh off a 2-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, having secured their spot in the Europa League knockout stages. The triumph is especially sweet for the Giallorossi, who had previously turned around their fortunes with a dramatic 2-1 win at Udinese, overcoming the odds after trailing at halftime. This was their first Serie A victory since April, showcasing their determination to reclaim form.
Despite their recent successes, Roma's history against Napoli poses significant challenges; they have won just once out of their last ten league matches against the Partenopei, highlighting the psychological hurdles they face. November’s previous fixture saw Roma fall to a 1-0 defeat, attributed to former player Romelu Lukaku's late strike, as Napoli's historical dominance continues to loom large.
Leading up to the match, Roma's home advantages at the Stadio Olimpico cannot be underestimated. Ranieri's side has amassed 21 of their 30 league points at home and is seeking to make the Olimpico a formidable fortress once again. They have been relentless, winning their last seven home games with multiple-goal margins. A fast start has been noted, with Roma scoring six goals within the first 25 minutes across their last four home matches. With their attack spearheaded by star forward Paulo Dybala and the promising Artem Dovbyk, the Giallorossi will hope to unsettle Napoli's defense.
On the other hand, Napoli arrives at the capital full of confidence. They attained their seventh consecutive league victory last weekend, defeating Juventus 2-1 after working their way back from behind. This impressive streak has been powered by standout performances from Frank Anguissa and Lukaku, both of whom excelled against the Bianconeri. The Neapolitans have showcased their attacking prowess, scoring three goals or more in their last four away matches.
Defensively, Napoli has kept remarkably tight; they’ve conceded only 15 goals throughout the season, the fewest across Serie A. With both sides enjoying solid momentum, the matchup is poised to be electrifying. Their ability to trade blows and defend resolutely will be put to the test under the floodlights of the iconic stadium.
Team news has been mostly positive for Roma, who recently bid farewell to defender Mario Hermoso. Napoli, on the other hand, will miss left-back Mathias Olivera due to injury. Manager Conte is likely to stick with the same lineup following their triumphant performance against Juventus.
The potential starting lineups paint an intriguing picture: Roma is expected to field Svilar; Mancini, Hummels, Ndicka; Saelemaekers, Kone, Paredes, Angelino; Dybala, Pellegrini; and Dovbyk, whereas Napoli might roll out Meret; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Jesus, Spinazzola; Anguissa, Lobotka, McTominay; Politano, Lukaku, and Neres.
Betting tips suggest Roma's solid home record may provide them with a glimmer of hope, yet observers note Napoli’s consistency and winning mentality make them formidable opponents. A noteworthy fact is Napoli's undefeated record against Roma at their last ten encounters.
With kick-off slated for Sunday, February 3, 2025, at 01:15 AM IST, fans are eager for another chapter of this historic rivalry. Will Roma be able to break free from the shackles of Napoli’s dominance, or will the league leaders extend their winning streak? The atmosphere promises to be electric as both teams battle not just for points but pride as well.