Napoli vs Chelsea Preview: Conte Faces Former Club but Struggles in Europe, Blues Need 3 Points to Secure Top Eight

At 4:00 AM Beijing time on January 29, the concluding matches of the Champions League group stage's 8th round will be played simultaneously, with Napoli hosting Chelsea.

Key highlights of the Napoli vs Chelsea game are as follows:

First:Team SituationsAfter seven rounds in the Champions League, Napoli has 2 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses, totaling 8 points and ranking twenty-fifth, inside the elimination zone (positions 9 to 24); Chelsea stands with 4 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses, accumulating 13 points and placed eighth, inside the direct qualification zone (top eight). In their last league match, Napoli suffered a heavy 0-3 defeat away to Juventus, winning only once in their last six games across all competitions, showing poor form; Chelsea won 3-1 away against Crystal Palace, marking their third consecutive victory in all tournaments. Currently, Napoli ranks fourth in Serie A with a squad valued at €429 million; Chelsea is fifth in the Premier League with a squad worth €1.19 billion.

Second:Conte Faces Former Team but Falters in Europe, Blues Fight for Top Eight with 3 PointsThis match is special for Conte as he faces his former club, but he is only managing a single competition this season. As Serie A defending champions, they are struggling in both the Champions League and Serie A, facing elimination in Europe and falling behind in the league title race, which casts doubt on Conte’s status as a top coach. Chelsea is eager to secure a top-eight spot and will give their all away from home. A draw holds little value for either side, so both are expected to play attacking football, which favors Chelsea. Considering the current strength of Serie A teams, Chelsea is favored to take control on the road, dominate Napoli, and win, helping them secure Champions League qualification by finishing in the top eight and advancing directly to the round of 16.

The two teams have met twice before, each winning once.

Injury and suspension updates: Napoli hasDe Bruyne, Guilherme, Anguissa, Rahmani, Politano, Neres, Vania; Chelsea hasCorvil, Essugo, Adarabioyo, Rafia, Palmer (doubtful).