Napoli Draws with Copenhagen: Champions League Hopes Hang in the Balance

Napoli failed to secure a victory away from home in this Champions League edition, settling for a frustrating draw against Copenhagen. While they avoided a loss, the result feels like a setback, offering little in terms of progress. The match initially favored Napoli, with Conte’s men gaining a numerical advantage after Delaney’s reckless foul on Lobotka just past the half-hour mark.

Shortly after, McTominay, proving his Champions League prowess, headed home his fourth goal in seven matches, seemingly putting Napoli in control. However, Copenhagen responded strongly in the second half, earning a penalty that ultimately leveled the score. Milinkovic-Savic initially saved Larsson’s spot-kick, but the rebound proved unstoppable.

Napoli pushed for a winner, but their efforts were thwarted. Former player Hojlund had a quiet evening, while Lukaku remained on the bench. The draw feels like a missed opportunity, squandering two valuable points.

Champions League Qualification Now a Final-Day Showdown

Napoli’s path to the Champions League knockout stages now hinges on the final matchday, where they will host Chelsea at the Stadio Maradona. Before that, a challenging Serie A fixture against Juventus awaits them in Turin. Napoli had the chance to secure their playoff spot, but Copenhagen’s equalizer has complicated matters.

Key Moments and Controversies

• Delaney’s Red Card: A clumsy and unnecessary foul on Lobotka led to a straight red card for the Copenhagen captain.
• McTominay’s Goal: The Scottish midfielder continues to be a key contributor in the Champions League, adding to his impressive goal tally.
• Penalty Drama: Milinkovic-Savic’s initial save was followed by a decisive rebound goal for Copenhagen.

Match Details

The game was a tense affair, with both teams battling hard. A late surge from Napoli couldn’t break the deadlock, despite chances for Lucca and Olivera. Lukaku’s potential return from injury added another layer of intrigue, but he remained unused.

Copenhagen (4-4-2): Kotarski; Meling, Gabriel Pereira, Suzuki, Lopez; Elyounoussi, Madsen, Delaney, Achouri; Dadason, Cornelius.

Napoli (3-4-2-1): Milinkovic-Savic; Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Juan Jesus; Spinazzola, McTominay, Lobotka, Gutierrez; Vergara, Elmas; Hojlund.

You can find more details about the match and pre-game analysis on Corriere dello Sport.

The atmosphere at the Parken Stadium was electric, with around 2,000 Napoli fans making the journey despite travel difficulties. The team will need to harness that support as they head into crucial matches against Juventus and Chelsea.