The Stadio Olimpico is set to host a high-stakes encounter this Sunday evening as resurgent Roma welcome Serie A leaders Napoli in the latest installment of the Derby del Sole. This match promises to be a fascinating tactical battle between two of Italy’s most storied clubs, both led by experienced and successful managers.
Roma’s recent form has been nothing short of impressive. Under the guidance of Claudio Ranieri, who returned to the club in December, the Giallorossi have undergone a remarkable transformation. Their midweek 2-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League playoff round further underlines their resurgence.
In Serie A, Roma are currently enjoying a six-match unbeaten run, a stark contrast to their earlier struggles this season. They now sit ninth in the table and are pushing for European qualification. A victory against Napoli would not only boost their chances of a top-six finish but also mark their third consecutive league win, a feat they haven’t achieved since March.
Ranieri’s impact has been significant, with the Rome-born manager recently reaching the milestone of 200 Serie A wins. His tactical acumen and ability to galvanize the squad have been key factors in Roma’s turnaround.
Napoli, under the stewardship of Antonio Conte, have been in imperious form this season. The Partenopei currently lead the Serie A table and are on a seven-match winning streak in the league. Their resilience was on full display last week when they came from behind to defeat Juventus, showcasing the mental fortitude Conte has instilled in the team.
The Naples outfit have shown remarkable consistency, winning 17 out of 18 matches when taking the lead and joint-most (four) after trailing. This ability to grind out results has been crucial in their title push, as they look to secure their fourth Scudetto.
For Roma, all eyes will be on Artem Dovbyk. The Ukrainian striker has been in scintillating form, scoring in his last three league games and contributing to more goals than any other player in Serie A over the past six matchdays.
Napoli will look to their former Roma striker, Romelu Lukaku, to lead the line. The Belgian international, who scored the winner in the reverse fixture, will be eager to make an impact against his old club.
Recent history favours Napoli in this fixture, with Roma winning just two of their last eight home games against the Partenopei. However, the overall head-to-head record is closely contested, with both teams having won 15 games each in their last 39 meetings since 2005.
Team News
Roma are enjoying a rare injury-free period, giving Ranieri a full squad to choose from. The manager may opt to field the same strong lineup that secured Europa League progress midweek.
Napoli have a near full-strength squad, with left-back Mathias Olivera their only absentee. Alessandro Buongiorno has resumed training and could make the bench. Ex-Roma players Leonardo Spinazzola and Juan Jesus are likely to feature in the visitors’ defense.
Expected Starting XIs
Roma: Svilar; Mancini, Hummels, Ndicka; Saelemaekers, Kone, Paredes, Angelino; Dybala, Pellegrini; Dovbyk
Napoli: Meret; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Jesus, Spinazzola; Anguissa, Lobotka, McTominay; Politano, Lukaku, Neres
Match Prediction
Given Roma’s improved form and home advantage, coupled with Napoli’s consistency, this match could end in a closely fought draw. Both teams have the firepower to score, but their respective defensive solidity might lead to a narrow away with for the Partenopei.
Prediction: Roma 0-1 Napoli
