Napoli will look to maintain their position atop Serie A when they host newly-promoted Como at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Friday evening. The Partenopei have enjoyed a strong start under new manager Antonio Conte, while Como are finding their feet after returning to the top flight for the first time in over two decades.
Napoli currently lead Serie A with 13 points from six matches, one point clear of Juventus. They are unbeaten in their last five league games and have won all three of their home fixtures so far this season. Most recently, Napoli dispatched Monza 2-0 thanks to goals from Matteo Politano and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Como have adapted well to life in Serie A after a 21-year absence. They sit 10th in the table with eight points and are riding a three-match unbeaten streak. Back-to-back 3-2 victories over Atalanta and Verona have boosted confidence in Cesc Fabregas’ side.
Team News
Napoli will be without first-choice goalkeeper Alex Meret due to a thigh injury, with Elia Caprile set to continue deputizing. Otherwise, Conte has a full squad to choose from and is likely to stick with the 4-3-3 formation he has employed recently.
Como striker Alberto Cerri is doubtful with an ankle problem but could recover in time. Andrea Belotti may have to settle for a place on the bench despite scoring last weekend, with Patrick Cutrone expected to lead the line.
Expected Starting XIs
Napoli: Caprile; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Buongiorno, Olivera; Anguissa, Lobotka, McTominay; Politano, Lukaku, Kvaratskhelia
Como: Audero; Van Der Brempt, Kempf, Dossena, Moreno; Perrone, Roberto; Strefezza, Paz, Fadera; Cutrone
Match Prediction
While Como have shown they can compete at this level, Napoli’s quality and home advantage should see them through. The hosts have been defensively solid under Conte but Como carry a goal threat. A close 2-1 victory for Napoli seems likely as they aim to consolidate their position at the top of Serie A heading into the international break.
Prediction: Napoli 2-1 Como
