Torino vs Napoli
Serie A
Sunday
7th January 2024
Olimpico di Torino
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Serie A fixture between Torino and Napoli.
Torino vs Napoli: Preview
Torino form analysis
After an inconsistent first half of the season, Torino’s recent league form has ticked upward. A dominant 3-0 home win over Atalanta on December 5th sparked an unbeaten run, thanks to a D. Zapata double. A battling goalless draw away at relegation rivals Frosinone followed before another Zapata goal earned a key 1-0 victory away at Empoli on December 17th. Torino fought back to claim a late 1-1 home draw with top six contenders Udinese on December 23rd courtesy of substitute I. Ilić’s equalizer, extending their results streak to ten points from twelve.
However, the winter break saw momentum halted with a narrow 0-1 defeat away at Fiorentina on December 29th, undone by a late L. Ranieri strike. Overall, an improved defense has given Torino’s attack licence to hurt teams on the counter attack. Building on these solid foundations will be critical for the manager to mount a late push for European qualification in the second half of the campaign. With the attack gelling and Zapata finding form, eradicating minor defensive lapses could make mid-table Torino awkward opponents during the run-in.
Napoli form analysis
After setting Serie A’s early pace, Napoli’s form has slipped in recent matches. A comprehensive 0-3 defeat away at title rivals Inter Milan on December 4th was somewhat unlucky, halting their positive momentum. Despite going close through several chances, Napoli then suffered a second straight narrow 1-0 defeat to Juventus at home on December 9th courtesy of a Federico Gatti winner. Napoli rebounded to claim a battling 2-1 home victory over Cagliari on December 16th, overturning Pavoletti’s equalizer through Kvaratskhelia.
However, another 2-0 defeat followed this time away at top four hopefuls Roma on December 24th. Napoli ended 2023 with a disappointing goalless draw at home to Monza on December 29th. Despite dominating possession they created few openings in a game encapsulating their recent attacking struggles. Overall, confidence seems slightly diminished but Napoli’s quality should shine through again quickly under Luciano Spalletti. Rekindling their ruthless last season edge must be prioritized to fend off an ominous chasing pack including Inter, Roma and Juventus in a potentially captivating Serie A title race.
