Explore the impact of Lukaku’s performance in Napoli’s 3-1 win, solidifying their lead in Serie A. Get insights and match details on our website.
Introduction:
Napoli continued their incredible run in Serie A by winning 3-1 against a resilient Como side to retain their top position. With the win, Napoli extended their unbeaten run to six matches with five wins and one draw from the last six league matches played. Conte’s side once again showed why they are among the favorites to win the title, as Como, having come out very strong at halftime, were overwhelmed in the end by the league leaders.
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Napoli’s Quick Early Turn of Affairs on Field
It took them only 25 seconds into the game to assert their control over the match. Romelu Lukaku, who has been in impressive form all season, accepted a wonderful pass on the edge of the box, laying it up for Scott McTominay. The Scottish midfielder was in fine composure as he took a touch before sending the ball home by the left post to give Napoli an early lead. Their blistering start left Como caught off balance, as Napoli put pressure on their backline immediately with their high-intensity game plan.
Como Fight Back
Despite Napoli having the upper hand, Como settled into the game and created chances of their own. Nico Paz was easily the visitor side’s best bet; he was forever lurking around the edges of Napoli’s defense. Paz narrowly missed leveling matters with a strong shot from 25 yards in the 33rd minute as it rang off the post. Como were getting closer, though, just as the half time seemed to be approaching.
A wild shot from the legs of Alessandro Buongiorno managed its way into Napoli goalkeeper Elia Caprile as one cropped up at the far end. That was thanks to some nice play by Gabriel Strefezza. The ball rolled into the far corner, levelling the score to 1-1 and therefore preparing a thrilling second half.
Lukaku Restores Napoli’s Lead
Napoli did not have to wait long for to reclaim the initiative after the break. Only five minutes into the second half, Matias Olivera seized a penalty after an alert exchange of passes between Lukaku and himself inside the Como penalty area. With his confidence personified, the Belgian striker stepped up and slotted the penalty straight down the middle, beating to his right the wrong way, the Como goalkeeper Emil Audero. Lukaku’s strike restored Napoli’s lead at 2-1, and for what was left of the match, things were no contest.
Conte Makes Tactical Changes Count
Napoli manager Antonio Conte’s second-half changes worked wonders, as they strangled the game away from Como, who had been menacing at times in the first period. The visitors were unable to match the pace and ferocity from the opening stages, and Napoli restricted spaces and chances for the visitors as the hosts dominated the flow of the game.
Napoli had their dependable winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia once more. Twice he had lung-busting runs down the left flank that pinned the Como defense back. His first attempt allowed Audero to easily smother it; the second was for an unsuccessful freekick. Kvaratskhelia’s energy ensured Napoli kept the pressure on their opponents.
Sealing of Napoli
Four minutes before the final whistle, Napoli sealed the game with a third goal. It bounced its way around the edge of the penalty area, once again it was Romelu Lukaku who stood front and centre of the attack. Using his considerable physical presence he was able to hold off two defenders before playing David Neres into the box perfectly, Neres then placed the ball calmly in at the near post from 12 yards out beating Audero to seal the three points for Napoli. A well-rounded all round performance from the league leaders.
Conclusion
Napoli’s 3-1 victory over Como means the team can maintain the title at the top of Serie A for at least one more week, with a four-point lead above second place Juventus. Conte’s side have shown once again an impressive balance between attack and defense. At this point in the season, Napoli is establishing themselves as serious contenders for the title, whereas Como, promising themselves in the first half, suffered an intense defeat.