Napoli vs Como: Preview, Predictions, Team News, Lineups
Reigning Serie A champions Napoli are set to face Como in a crucial Coppa Italia quarter-final match at Stadio Maradona. This encounter will take place on Tuesday, as Napoli continues its pursuit of a seventh Coppa Italia title. Over the past year, Napoli has maintained an impressive unbeaten streak in domestic competitions.
Match Preview: Napoli vs Como
After exiting the Champions League early, Napoli entered the Coppa Italia at the last-16 stage. They narrowly avoided elimination in their previous match against Cagliari, winning 9-8 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw. With this victory, they earned the right to face Como, aiming for a semi-final against Inter Milan.
Recent Performance
Despite a challenging start to this season, with setbacks placing them behind both Milan clubs in the league, Napoli secured back-to-back victories recently. In their last match against Genoa, they overcame an early deficit to win 3-2, solidifying their position in third place.
Como’s Journey
Como has enjoyed a remarkable campaign, defeating Sudtirol and Sassuolo in earlier Coppa Italia rounds. Currently targeting a top-four finish in Serie A, they are also vying for their first Coppa Italia title. Under the leadership of coach Cesc Fabregas, Como recorded a series of impressive victories before encountering difficulties against Atalanta BC, where they failed to capitalize despite playing against ten men for most of the match.
Team News
For Napoli, there are concerns regarding the fitness of key player Scott McTominay, who recently suffered an injury. Alongside him, several players, including Kevin De Bruyne and Giovanni Di Lorenzo, are sidelined. Goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, who recently returned from injury, is in contention to start.
Como, on the other hand, boasts a nearly complete squad, with only Assane Diao and Edoardo Goldaniga unavailable due to injury. Their forward duo, Nico Paz and Tasos Douvikas, has been pivotal to their success, netting a combined total of significant goals in both Serie A and the Coppa Italia.
Potential Lineups
- Napoli Possible Starting XI:
Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Jesus; Gutierrez, Lobotka, Elmas, Olivera; Vergara, Giovane; Hojlund - Como Possible Starting XI:
Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Kempf, Valle; Perrone, Da Cunha; Vojvoda, Paz, Baturina; Douvikas
Match Prediction
The upcoming clash between Napoli and Como is anticipated to be closely contested. Given Como’s recent performances and Napoli’s injury concerns, a competitive matchup is expected. The prediction sees Napoli and Como potentially ending in a 1-1 draw, with Napoli likely to advance through penalties once again.
