Napoli Vs Monza

Both Napoli and Monza will be aiming for maximum points when they face off at Stadio Maradona for Serie A's Sunday night kickoff. Coming off victories in the Coppa Italia earlier this week, both teams are eager to capitalize on their recent success. Napoli, in particular, has been in impressive form, remaining unbeaten since the opening matchday of the season and demonstrating a potent attacking threat, having scored nine goals without conceding in their last three matches. In contrast, Monza is still in search of their first league victory.

Current Form

Following a goalless draw against Juventus last weekend, Napoli has accumulated 10 points from their first five league fixtures under the management of Antonio Conte. This strong start has positioned them just one point off the top of the table, trailing the early leaders, Torino.

Conte, a former Juventus coach, has leaned on two key players: the seasoned Romelu Lukaku and the Azzurri's standout star, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Both players are crucial to Napoli's attack as they aim to secure a spot in next season's Champions League after missing out during a disappointing 2023-24 campaign. With hopes high for silverware this season, Napoli's best opportunity may lie in the Coppa Italia, where they recently triumphed over Serie B side Palermo with an emphatic 5-0 home victory. Cyril Ngonge was particularly impressive, scoring twice, while new signings Scott McTominay and David Neres also found the net, showcasing the added depth in Conte's squad following a busy summer transfer window.

Napoli's Home Advantage

Under Conte’s leadership, Napoli has now won all four home games, including their upcoming Coppa Italia match against Lazio in the last 16. Historically, Napoli has enjoyed success against Monza, winning two of their four previous top-flight encounters, scoring four goals in both matches. The most recent victory came in April this year, where Napoli defeated Monza 4-2, thanks to four goals scored in the second half.

Monza's Struggles

On the other hand, Monza is currently enduring a challenging period in the league. They are on the longest winless streak among teams in Italy's top division, having failed to secure a victory in their last 14 matches. This streak continued last week when they lost at home to Bologna, despite veteran striker Milan Djuric equalizing for the Biancorossi. Unfortunately for Monza, they conceded a late goal, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the table with just three points to their name.

Despite their struggles in Serie A, Monza did find some respite by joining Napoli in the Coppa Italia's last 16 on Thursday evening. They secured a 3-1 home victory over Brescia, which provided a much-needed morale boost. Goals from Giorgos Kyriakopoulos, Gianluca Caprari, and team captain Matteo Pessina marked a significant improvement for a side that had only managed to score four goals in the league prior to this match.

Looking Ahead

As Monza prepares to face Bologna again in December, the immediate focus remains on Serie A. Alessandro Nesta's side is keen to break their winless run and secure their first away victory of the season. A match against a formidable opponent like Napoli presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Monza to turn their fortunes around.

Conclusion

The upcoming clash at Stadio Maradona promises to be an exciting encounter between two teams with contrasting narratives. While Napoli is riding high on a wave of confidence, looking to secure their position in the Champions League and make a mark in domestic competitions, Monza is desperately seeking to lift themselves off the bottom of the league table and begin their ascent in Serie A.

With both teams having something significant at stake, fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as they take to the pitch. As Napoli aims to continue their unbeaten streak and Monza seeks their first league victory, this match is set to be a highlight of the Serie A calendar.