Napoli vs Eintracht Frankfurt: Match Prediction, Team News, Lineups
In a crucial UEFA Champions League matchup, Napoli will host Eintracht Frankfurt on Tuesday at Stadio Maradona. Both teams are eager to rebound from their recent heavy defeats. Napoli and Eintracht Frankfurt each suffered four-goal losses in their last outings, putting pressure on them to secure points in this important fixture.
Match Preview
This season has been challenging for both squads. Napoli, the reigning Serie A champions, has never advanced past the quarter-finals in the Champions League. Coach Antonio Conte aims to turn their fortunes around and push deep into the tournament this year.
In their Champions League journey thus far, Napoli has had mixed results. After a disappointing 2-0 loss to Manchester City, they rebounded with a narrow victory over Sporting Lisbon. However, their hopes were dashed with a 6-2 defeat to PSV Eindhoven, where they suffered a red card and defensive errors were costly.
On the domestic front, Napoli managed to reclaim the top spot in Serie A. They secured a victory against Inter Milan and rallied past Lecce, with Frank Anguissa scoring crucial goals. Despite a recent goalless draw against Como, Napoli remains unbeaten at home this season.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s Struggles
Meanwhile, Eintracht Frankfurt has had a rocky start to their Champions League campaign. After impressive last season performances that placed them third in the Bundesliga, they currently find themselves sixth. Their recent form includes a 1-1 draw with bottom-placed Heidenheim and a penalty shootout defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the DFB-Pokal.
Frankfurt’s defense has been a significant issue, with 25 goals conceded in their last eight matches, leading to two consecutive 5-1 defeats in the Champions League. Their initial triumph against Galatasaray is overshadowed by these setbacks, reinforcing their need for points in Italy.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Napoli’s squad is facing fitness concerns as Billy Gilmour is doubtful after a muscular injury. However, Stanislav Lobotka has returned to the bench, and defender Amir Rrahmani is back in the lineup. Notably, striker Lorenzo Lucca is suspended, paving the way for Rasmus Hojlund to start. He has made an impact with seven goals in eight Champions League matches.
Eintracht Frankfurt might see changes as well, with Mario Gotze potentially stepping in for a sidelined player. The team continues to rely on their attacking prowess, led by Jonathan Burkardt, who has found the net frequently in recent matches.
Potential Starting Lineups
- Napoli: Milinkovic-Savic; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Buongiorno, Spinazzola; Anguissa, Lobotka, McTominay; Politano, Hojlund, Neres
- Eintracht Frankfurt: Zetterer; Kristensen, Koch, Theate; Doan, Larsson, Chaibi, Brown; Gotze, Knauff; Burkardt
Match Prediction
Considering Napoli’s strong home record and Frankfurt’s recent woes, this match promises excitement. With both teams desperate for a victory, Napoli is expected to secure a 2-1 win at home, putting them back on track in the Champions League.
