If there is a hatred in Italian football, do know that the biggest one is between Napoli and Juventus. This isn’t a rivalry, but hate, and if you ask any of the fans, they will tell you the same thing. It is why Napoli vs. Juventus game draws that much attention. These two sides are fierce enemies, and title contenders. Though, the recent slump in Napoli’s game pretty much eliminated them from the trophy race. Juve is still hanging on, but a failure here would put them in a bad place, undoubtedly.
Napoli vs. Juventus Schedule
- Where: San Paolo, Naples, Italy
- When: Saturday, February 13, Noon ET
- How to Watch: ESPN
Napoli vs. Juventus Odds
Napoli | Draw | Juventus |
---|---|---|
+300 | +260 | -110 |
Napoli vs. Juventus Preview
Do or Die For Gattuso
Napoli’s coach, Gennaro Gattuso, is under heavy pressure from the owners, and if he doesn’t win this match, the legendary midfielder will be fired. Though, we aren’t sure why Aurelio De Laurentis, Napoli’s owner, wants to move the only coach who brought him trophy since 2014.
Certainly, Napoli is not playing well throughout the season, and is 12 points behind the first-placed AC Milan, but the team didn’t sign any notable players during the offseason.
At the moment, the hosts didn’t win in three straight games, suffering elimination from Coppa Italia in the meantime, with Atalanta eliminating them in the semis. However, this side didn’t lose in Naples for five consecutive events, posting three clean sheets in a row. Also, they have just one loss in the past 11 at San Paolo.
Juventus’ Ferocious Defense
The Old Lady didn’t lose in the previous seven games, keeping their net intact six times during that stretch. The only goal they’ve allowed was in the Coppa Italia first leg vs. Inter, once they won, 1-2. They would later play 0-0 in Turin to advance to the next stage.
Overall, Andrea Pirlo’s team improved its form, winning six times during the above-mentioned stretch, scoring twice in each match but this latest goalless draw against Nerazzurri.
The reigning champions are apparently picking up the pace, and it seems that they enter the second part of the season in an excellent mood. All that confidence comes from the impeccable other players knowing that their errors won’t damage the team’s chances for a win.
Napoli vs. Juventus Head to Head
On January 20, Juve defeated Napoli in the Italian Super Cup, 2-0. Ronaldo and Morata scored for the Old Lady in the second half, with Lorenzo Insigne missing the penalty with Napoli trailing one goal.
Previously, Napoli beat Juve in the Coppa Italia finals after the penalties.
Napoli vs. Juventus Pick
This promises to be a tough match, with just a few chances for a goal. As we can see, Juventus’ defense is perfect, while on the other side, Napoli defends well at home in recent times. Also, Gattuso’s situation will force him to be even more careful, which is why our pick here is under 2.5 goals. The odds are -110.