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Match Preview
UEFA
Champions League: Napoli vs Barcelona
Kickoff
Time: 2024-02-22 04:00 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/ALBERT
GEA
Napoli
played a 1-1 draw against Genoa at home in the recent Serie A match. Their
overall performance in the last five games has been disappointing, with only
one win, two draws, and two losses. Napoli’s form has not lived up to
expectations, especially after undergoing a coaching change. Despite retaining
most of the championship-winning line-up from the previous season, Napoli’s
chances of competing for the league title seem bleak. They currently sit in ninth
place in the Serie A standings, trailing by a significant nine-point margin from
the Champions League zone. Criticism has been directed towards Napoli’s coach,
Walter Mazzarri, for his inconsistent tactical approach. His ever-changing
ideas and inability to effectively implement the three-defender formation he
prefers have forced them to rely on the 4-3-3 formation that brought success
last season. This mismatch between their style and Mazzarri’s tactics has
contributed to their struggles. Additionally, the poor results have created a
negative atmosphere within them, and players are experiencing significant
psychological pressure as a result.
In
the recent La Liga match, Barcelona secured a 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo in an
away game. Over the past five games, Barcelona have recorded three wins, one
draw, and one loss, indicating an improvement in their form. As of now,
Barcelona hold the third position in the La Liga standings with 54 points.
However, they are facing an eight-point deficit behind league leaders Real
Madrid, making their championship prospects challenging. Since the announcement
of Xavi’s departure as head coach at the end of the season, Barcelona’s
performance has notably improved. They have experienced a resurgence, and their
top scorer Robert Lewandowski has been in excellent form, finding the net in
each of the last three games. Barcelona’s offensive strength is evident through
their high ball possession rate, numerous shots on goal, and a stable passing
and running game. The players’ exceptional individual abilities, combined with
their cohesive play, enable Barcelona to consistently create scoring
opportunities and find the back of the net.
Both
Barcelona and Napoli have experienced a decline in their performances this
season compared to the previous year. However, when considering their overall
strength and performance, Barcelona appears to have the edge over Napoli.
Barcelona have shown recent signs of improvement and gaining momentum. On the
other hand, Napoli have been struggling with chaotic tactics and a sluggish
state of form. Although Napoli may have the advantage of playing at home in the
upcoming match, it would be unwise to overestimate their chances. Given
Barcelona’s current good form, it is reasonable to be optimistic that they can
come out unscathed in this game.
Napoli’s
Last 5 Games: DLWDL
24-02-17
Napoli 1-1 Genoa
24-02-12
AC Milan 1-0 Napoli
24-02-04
Napoli 2-1 Verona
24-01-29
Lazio 0-0 Napoli
24-01-23
Napoli 0-1 Inter
Barcelona’s
Last 5 Games: WDWWL
24-02-18
Celta Vigo 1-2 Barcelona
24-02-12
Barcelona 3-3 Granada
24-02-04
Deportivo Alaves 1-3 Barcelona
24-02-01
Barcelona 1-0 Osasuna
24-01-28
Barcelona 3-5 Villarreal
Head
To Head Record:
22-02-05
Napoli 2-4 Barcelona
22-02-18
Barcelona 1-1 Napoli
22-08-09
Barcelona 3-1 Napoli
20-02-26
Napoli 1-1 Barcelona
19-09-11
Barcelona 4-0 Napoli
Prediction: Barcelona to win or Draw