Juventus vs Napoli Preview: Predictions, Lineups, and Team News
A highly anticipated clash is set for Sunday evening, as Juventus hosts Napoli in Turin. This match is pivotal not only for pride but also for the Serie A standings. Juventus sits four points behind Napoli and needs a win to close the gap.
Match Preview: Juventus vs. Napoli
Juventus, under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti, has experienced a recent resurgence, losing only two matches since November. However, a shocking defeat against Cagliari last weekend dampened their ambitions for the Serie A title. They are currently three points shy of the top four, emphasizing the importance of this match for their Champions League aspirations.
Juventus’s Recent Performance
The Bianconeri demonstrated their potential with a convincing 2-0 victory over Benfica in the UEFA Champions League, securing a place in the knockout stages. Goals from Khephren Thuram and Weston McKennie were pivotal in this match. Juventus has not lost at home since March and will seek to extend this unbeaten run at the Allianz Stadium, where they have won 10 of their last 14 matches.
Juventus’s Head-to-Head Record Against Napoli
Historically, Juventus has struggled against Napoli in recent encounters. They have only managed to win once in their last nine league meetings, including a defeat at Stadio Maradona last month. Out of 14 visits to the Allianz Stadium, Napoli has secured only two victories and lost 10 times.
Napoli’s Current Form
Antonio Conte’s Napoli is facing challenges, particularly in Serie A, having drawn three consecutive matches before a narrow 1-0 victory against Sassuolo. Despite their struggles, Napoli remains just four points ahead of Juventus in the league. With two wins in their last 13 away matches, they are not favored to win in Turin.
Player Updates and Team News
Juventus will again be without key players, including Daniele Rugani and Dusan Vlahovic. Despite a strong performance against Benfica, Spalletti is unlikely to make significant changes to the starting lineup. Kenan Yildiz has been in fine form, matching last season’s tally of seven goals and four assists.
On the other side, Napoli’s striker Rasmus Hojlund is expected to start despite a recent goal drought spanning five league matches. The team faces further challenges with injuries sidelining David Neres and other crucial players. Alex Meret is nearing a return, which could bolster their defense.
Predicted Lineups
| Juventus | Napoli |
|---|---|
| Di Gregorio | Milinkovic-Savic |
| Kalulu | Beukema |
| Bremer | Buongiorno |
| Kelly | Jesus |
| Cambiaso | Di Lorenzo |
| Locatelli | Lobotka |
| Thuram | McTominay |
| Conceicao | Spinazzola |
| McKennie | Vergara |
| Yildiz | Elmas |
| David | Hojlund |
Prediction
In a closely contested match, Juventus is poised to claim a 2-1 victory over Napoli. With the home advantage and newfound confidence, Juventus aims to capitalize on Napoli’s recent struggles, especially away from home.
