Napoli vs Bologna: Match Preview, Odds & Predictions

Napoli had a dismal 2018–19 season, but many hope for a dramatic turnaround in 2024–25, when they should be back among the top five Serie A clubs—the season got off to a disappointing start, however, as Antonio Conte's squad fell 3-0 away to Verona in the first round. Despite the visitors' first-half dominance, the home team scored three goals to humiliate their legendary opponent in the second half. 

Bologna had their finest season of the 21st century last year, and it won't be easy to top that. We shouldn't anticipate the Emilia-Romagna squad to finish in the top five again, especially after they lost head coach Thiago Motta and many key players. In last weekend's Serie A opening round, Bologna and Udinese played to a 1-1 draw at home; despite finishing with 74% control of the ball and 18 more shots on goal than their opponent, the home team could not secure all three points. 

Previous Matches and Head-to-head

When Napoli hosts Bologna in their season opener, the team will be looking to bounce back from a 3-0 setback to Verona. After a disastrous defensive performance against the Mastini, new manager Antonio Conte will likely change the Neapolitans' starting lineup. Giovanni Simeone will likely start in goal for the home club now that Victor Osimhen is injured.

However, the Rossoblu and Udinese fought to a 1-1 tie in their first match in Serie A. We will be betting on Antonio Conte's squad since Bologna lost several starters during the summer transfer window. The away team's injury woes are compounded by the absence of Emil Holm, Jhon Lucumi, Kacper Urbanski, Oussama El Azzouzi, and Lewis Ferguson.

Napoli x Bologna Team News

Napoli is still trying to bring in new players to bolster its roster. As of Wednesday, Napoli had signed David Neres for about 30 million euros. Neres scored five goals in the league for Benfica last season. However, until the transfer window closes, Victor Osimhen ought to leave the team. 

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia left the field in the first half of the first-round match against Verona because of an injury. We will not know his situation on Sunday.

A few more players will also join Bologna in the next few days. According to Italian media sources, Cyril Ngonge and Tommaso Pobega may join Vincenzo Italiano's squad. 

Emil Holm, Jhon Lucumi, and Kacper Urbanski, along with Nicolo Cambiaghi, Oussama El Azzouzi, and Lewis Ferguson, who are all injured, are doubtful about participating on Sunday. 

Our Predictions

Under 2.5 goals @

Both teams could have been more efficient in the preceding weeks. Bologna scored twice in their past two games, whereas Napoli managed only one in their last four games (including the preseason). We should settle for at least two goals in Sunday's encounter between Bologna and Napoli. 

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