In a pulsating Champions League encounter at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, Napoli edged out Sporting Lisbon 2-1 on Wednesday night, thanks largely to a clinical brace from on-loan striker Rasmus Højlund. The Danish forward, freshly arrived from Manchester United on a season-long deal, wasted no time making his mark in Europe's elite competition. His goals came at crucial junctures, first leveling the score just before halftime and then clinching the points with a ruthless finish in the 79th minute.
The match started tentatively for the hosts, who had stumbled in their opening group game with a loss to Manchester City. Sporting, buoyed by a strong start to their campaign, took the lead through a Luis Suárez penalty in the 28th minute—a moment that exposed some lingering defensive frailties in Antonio Conte's setup. Yet Napoli's response was swift. Højlund, showing the poise that once lit up Old Trafford, nodded home an equalizer from a pinpoint cross, silencing the traveling fans and igniting the home crowd.
Indeed, the second half brought more urgency. Napoli dominated possession, pushing forward with Romelu Lukaku and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia pulling strings in midfield, but it was Højlund's predatory instinct that proved decisive. His second goal, a low drive after a quick counter, left Sporting's keeper with no chance. The visitors pressed late, but Napoli's resolve held firm, securing their first points of the season and breathing new life into their European aspirations.
Moreover, this victory comes amid a solid start for Napoli in Serie A, where they've already notched wins including a 3-1 triumph over Fiorentina—Højlund's debut goalscoring outing there. The 22-year-old's adaptation has been remarkably smooth, hinting at a potential long-term stay if the obligation-to-buy clause activates come summer. However, questions linger over the squad's depth, especially with injuries sidelining key players like Stanislav Lobotka.
Still, for Conte and his charges, this result feels like a turning point, underscoring the fine margins that define Champions League nights. One wonders if this momentum can carry them deeper into the tournament.