Cagliari – Napoli: Small Margins To Security (0-1)

Conviction has not been Antonio Conte’s forte this season, yet Napoli continue their winning ways, despite some limitations.

Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker.

The title defense may be over, but Napoli has looked good for a top four finish. With Como, Juve and Roma in a dogfight, Napoli have the task of staying clear from an intense finish to the season.

The start of the year had left a sour taste. Conte’s team were dumped out of the Champions League and Coppa Italia, before Internazionale grew distance on them in first place. In recent weeks, Napoli have been reinforced with key returnees in midfield: Billy Gilmour, Frank Anguissa and Kevin de Bruyne all back from injury. The 3-4-2-1 system is still in place, and although the chance creation has remained low, at least more angles are present from the change in personnel.

After several close calls, Cagliari have been more comfortable this season, having stayed away from the relegation zone. However, the job is not done. Six points separate them and Cremonese; the Sardinians needed a return to winning ways, no victories since their three on the spin in January. Under Fabio Pisacane, Cagliari are one of the more passive 3-5-2 structures in Serie A, with some traditional tropes in possession. The buildup is encouraged to the channels as the wide midfielders push towards the forwards and access towards Sebastiano Esposito opens (nine goal contributions this season for the young Italian). 

Pisacane made two changes to the team that lost 3-1 away to Pisa. Adam Obert was suspended, so Juan Rodríguez . . .