Napoli will look to maintain their momentum in the Serie A title race when they host relegation-threatened Venezia at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday, December 29, 2024. The Africa Football’s editor Bill Eshun dives into the game’s analysis.
With just two points separating Napoli from league leaders Atalanta, Antonio Conte’s side will be eager to capitalize on this opportunity. Meanwhile, Venezia are fighting to climb out of the relegation zone and face an uphill task against one of the league’s strongest teams.
After back-to-back defeats against Lazio, Napoli have seemingly rediscovered their form with consecutive victories over Udinese and Genoa.
- Napoli are just two points behind league leaders Atalanta.
- Venezia have managed only 13 points this season.
Antonio Conte’s men will head into the weekend clash with confidence as they face a struggling Venezia side languishing deep in the relegation zone. Venezia currently have the second-lowest points tally in the league this season.
The visitors’ plight has largely been due to a dismal run of results in their last seven matches, where they managed just one victory—a narrow win against fellow strugglers Cagliari.
Duncan Key to Venezia’s Hopes
Ghanaian midfielder Alfred Duncan has been a bright spark for Venezia since his summer move from Fiorentina, where he enjoyed a successful spell as a key player.
At Venezia, Duncan has already made an impact in his 11 league appearances, ranking fourth in completed passes (364) and sixth in total touches (521).
His ability to control the midfield will be crucial against Napoli, and much of Venezia’s hope for a positive result will rest on his shoulders.
Team News
- Venezia will be missing three players due to injuries.
- Napoli, however, are set to field a near-full-strength squad.
The Odds
Napoli are heavy favorites, with their odds of victory priced at 1.308 on 1xBet. Venezia’s chances are rated at 11.5, while a draw is valued at 6.08.
Prediction
The last time Venezia defeated Napoli dates back to 2003, and with the match taking place at the formidable Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, a repeat of that result seems highly unlikely.
Predicted Scoreline: Napoli 3-1 Venezia