In an exciting matchup this Sunday afternoon, reigning Serie A champions Napoli are set to face off against mid-table Udinese, aiming for a fourth consecutive league victory. While Napoli is firm in their bid to defend their Scudetto title, their aspirations in the Champions League have taken a hit following a disappointing midweek defeat.
Last week, Napoli achieved a significant victory over long-time rivals Juventus, marking their fifth consecutive win in all competitions. The team has adapted effectively to various changes, owing to injuries that have affected player availability. Notably, Rasmus Hojlund made headlines by scoring his first brace in Serie A during the intense encounter at Stadio Maradona, a match that also marked the end of an unbeaten calendar year against their former coach, Luciano Spalletti.
However, the focus has now shifted as Napoli’s head coach Antonio Conte prepares for a challenging game against Jose Mourinho’s squad. Napoli’s recent performance in the Champions League was a glaring contrast to their domestic success, as they suffered a 2-0 loss to Benfica in Lisbon. This defeat highlighted Napoli’s struggles on the road, which has seen them concede a staggering 17 goals in their last five Champions League away matches. With two fixtures remaining in the league phase, the team finds itself perilously close to elimination, hovering just above the danger zone.
Traveling north to face Udinese, Napoli’s recent history offers reassurance. They hold an impressive record against Udinese, remaining unbeaten in their last 18 league encounters and securing 14 victories during this stretch. The last time Udinese managed to defeat Napoli on home soil was back in the 2015-16 season.
On the other hand, Udinese has experienced a troubling downturn in form, slipping down the league table after suffering four losses in their last six matches. Their defense has been a particular concern, as they have conceded two or more goals in each defeat. After a disappointing exit from the Coppa Italia at the hands of Juventus, the team missed an opportunity to regain some confidence in a recent league match against Genoa. Despite a promising equalizer from Jakub Piotrowski, they ultimately conceded their 13th second-half goal of the season.
Kosta Runjaic, head coach of Udinese, may be under pressure to adjust his strategies in light of his side’s vulnerabilities. Their defensive frailties can be exploited, especially by a Napoli side eager to prove themselves after their European setback.
In terms of team news, Napoli will continue to navigate injuries with a depleted squad, including the absence of key players like Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne, Billy Gilmour, Stanislav Lobotka, Frank Anguissa, and goalkeeper Alex Meret. Yet, Napoli looks to rejuvenate their lineup with promising alternative contributors like Hojlund and David Neres, both of whom have been involved in four goal contributions over the last three matches.
As for Udinese, they will seek to lead the attack through players Keinan Davis and Nicolo Zaniolo. However, French midfielder Arthur Atta is sidelined with a thigh injury, and the availability of wing-back Hassane Kamara remains uncertain.
As the two teams prepare for this crucial match, predictions suggest a tight contest, with Napoli expected to edge past Udinese 1-0. Despite their European woes, Napoli’s consistent performance against lower-ranked Serie A teams may give them the upper hand, further diminishing Udinese’s chances as they look to navigate a challenging period.
