Bologna vs Napoli
Serie A
Sunday
24th September 2023
Renato Dall’Ara
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 5 of the Serie A fixture between Bologna and Napoli.
Bologna vs Napoli: Preview
Bologna form analysis
Veltri made a winning start by beating Lecce 3-2 away thanks to late goals from Zirkzee and Ferguson. However, they were brought back down to earth in a 0-2 home loss to AC Milan, outclassed by the champions.
Bologna did bounce back to earn a credible 1-1 draw away at Juventus, taking the lead through Ferguson before being pegged back. They returned to winning ways by beating Cagliari 2-1 at home, coming from behind through goals from Zirkzee and youngster Fabbian. Most recently, Bologna ground out a 0-0 draw away at Verona.
Overall, Bologna have been solid if unspectacular so far. Summer signing Ferguson has impressed with his goal contributions, while Zirkzee has shown himself capable of key goals.
However, Bologna have struggled against Serie A’s elite sides like Juve and Milan. Their defensive record has been fairly good, but creating chances remains an issue. If Bologna can become more clinical in attack, they have a good platform to build on this season.
Napoli form analysis
Napoli have made an inconsistent start in Serie A despite some high scoring games. They opened with an impressive 3-1 win away at Frosinone thanks to a brace from striker Osimhen. A 2-0 home win over Sassuolo followed, with Osimhen and Di Lorenzo on target. But Napoli suffered their first loss away at Lazio, going down 2-1 despite Zielinski equalizing.
They then drew a wild 2-2 game away at Genoa, twice coming from behind through Raspadori and Politano goals. In the Champions League, Napoli edged past Sporting Braga 2-1 thanks to goals from Di Lorenzo and an own goal.
Overall, Napoli have showcased their attacking potential with 11 goals in 5 games. Osimhen and Politano have impressed, and new signing Raspadori has added quality. But there are concerns defensively having kept just one clean sheet. The Lazio loss in particular exposed vulnerabilities at the back. If Napoli can tighten up defensively, their powerful attack gives them real title credentials.
