Prediction: Napoli vs Liverpool

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 5/2

Bookmaker: bet365

It’s time for European football to re-enter our lives once again, as we gear up for what should be an entertaining series of fixtures in both the Champions League and the Europa League. One of the most intriguing encounters that is currently awaiting us goes down on Tuesday night, as Napoli go head to head with Liverpool. The European champions will be expected to put in another solid run in the competition this year, whereas Napoli are hoping to do themselves a bit more justice this year.

Napoli

The Italian side are well known for being the bridesmaid and never the bride, and after a summer transfer window in which they were linked with more players than they actually brought in, there are some question marks over what their ceiling actually is. They’ve got a few big match winners within their ranks, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re capable of beating a side like Liverpool. Even so, the fact that this game is taking place in Italy could make all the difference.

Team News

Llorente is expected to feature in some way for Napoli, with Insigne being set to return after reaching full fitness once again. Milik continues to be a question mark for the Italian side.

Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp’s side already look like the favourites to win the Premier League for the first time, after years upon years of waiting to get their hands on the trophy. With that in mind, you have to wonder what their motivation is going to be like in regards to the Champions League. They’re obviously one of the strongest teams in the competition and they’ll always have a special relationship with the UCL, but when history awaits, you’d imagine that will be what they’re leaning towards.

Team News

Keita is still out with a hip issue, with Alisson still being out of action too. Aside from that they should have a fully fit squad to choose from, although Origi’s fitness is a bit of a mystery right now.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in December, Liverpool beat Napoli 1-0.
• Liverpool have won all five of their Premier League games this season.
• Napoli have won two and lost one of their Serie A games this season.
• Liverpool have scored nine goals and conceded two in their last three games.
• Napoli have scored nine goals and conceded seven in their last three games.

Conclusion

While Liverpool are the stronger team, they’re almost certainly going to have one eye on the Premier League given that they’re already five points clear at the top of the table with Manchester City struggling. Plus, when you consider the fact that Napoli are an incredibly strong side at home, this adds up to a pretty entertaining draw. Both teams know each other pretty well after playing one another twice last season in the competition, so it’ll hardly be surprising to see this one end up as a stalemate.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 5/2

Bookmaker: bet365