Napoli’s tactical identity shows promise, but Como defeat raises concerns ahead of Inter clash
Napoli opted for a 3-5-2 formation, prominently featuring Romelu Lukaku and Giacomo Raspadori as their frontline duo, which has now become their preferred attacking strategy following Raspadori's near departure in January.
Lukaku, pivotal in setting up Raspadori's goal against Lazio in their previous match, reaffirmed their partnership as Plan A.
Peter Billing, who joined from Premier League’s Bournemouth in January, marked his Napoli debut by slotting in as a right inside midfielder
Napoli's first goal stemmed from their effective high-pressure tactics, a hallmark of their play.
By the 21st minute, they had already capitalized on another turnover, although Scott McTominay missed a chance to extend the lead.
A notable tactical twist saw Napoli employing inverted wingbacks—an unusual approach within a 3-5-2 setup. This adjustment proved troublesome for Como, particularly with Napoli's floated crosses creating havoc in the box. Como’s goalkeeper, not the tallest, struggled against the aerial threats posed by Billing, McTominay, and Lukaku.
Napoli’s aggressive pressing style disrupted Como’s rhythm, forcing them into long kicks and aerial duels, often with Gabriel Strefezza dropping back into defensive duties while the traditional right back pushed forward to contest for second balls.
For at least one half, this strategy worked well—high recoveries, forced long passes, and errors induced by Napoli’s physical superiority. Como struggled to assert themselves in possession, looking uncharacteristically uncomfortable, with Marc-Oliver Kempf and Edoardo Goldaniga weaknesses exposed under intense pressure.
However, Napoli’s intensity faded as the match progressed. Como gradually grew into the game, their pressing becoming more dangerous, forcing Napoli into direct play. Conte instructed his players to push higher, but Napoli’s ability to bypass the pressure began to wane.
Como’s best chances came from quick transitions, and it was one such moment that led to Assane Diao’s equalizer before they eventually sealed a 2-1 victory.
In the goal against Napoli, pay close attention to how he strolls to stay onside, his clever positioning between Napoli’s center-backs, and then watch his first touch - with his left foot - already setting up the shot with his right, striking across goal.
This result leaves Napoli in second place in Serie A, but their recent struggles suggest they must regain control quickly. A crucial clash against league leaders Inter awaits, and if they are to keep their title hopes alive, they need to find consistency and resilience to steer the ship back on course.
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