Napoli vs. Cagliari: Can the Champions Keep Their Crown?

Napoli Host Cagliari: Serie A Showdown!

Reigning Serie A champions Napoli face Cagliari at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, a team they famously defeated last season to clinch the Scudetto. Can they repeat the feat and continue their title defence?

After a solid 2-0 victory against Sassuolo in their opening match, Napoli are looking to maintain their momentum. However, they're grappling with the absence of key players like Romelu Lukaku due to injury. Lorenzo Lucca is set to lead the attack, supported by Scott McTominay and Kevin De Bruyne in an attacking 4-1-4-1 formation. Summer signings are also gradually being integrated into the squad.

Cagliari, fresh from a 1-1 draw against Fiorentina, will be a tough opponent. Marco Palestra makes his debut, while familiar faces like Michael Folorunsho and Sebastiano Luperto return to face their former club. The game holds special significance for Sebastiano Esposito, whose family hails from the Naples area.

Conte's Prediction: A Tightly Contested Serie A

Napoli coach Antonio Conte believes that up to eight teams are capable of winning Serie A this season, highlighting the increased competition. He stressed the importance of maintaining focus and intensity, warning against complacency. Conte expects a difficult match against Cagliari, emphasizing the need to match their intensity to secure a positive result.

"We won the Scudetto with authority, enduring pressure as well. What I expect is focus and intensity, like in that match," Conte said. "It will be another game tomorrow... and Cagliari will want to confirm the good things they did against Fiorentina."

Conte is also looking to learn from the best in the Champions League as Napoli prepare for their return to European competition. The Serie A title race promises to be a thrilling battle with several well-equipped teams vying for the top spot. The Napoli vs. Cagliari match is a crucial early test for the defending champions.