In a thrilling encounter, Napoli secured a 1-0 victory against Brest at Castel di Sangro, showcasing their attacking prowess and leaving their 5,500 fans buzzing with excitement as the new season approaches. While the team still seeks a first-choice striker, Giacomo Raspadori stepped up to shine in a central role, delivering a brilliant goal that highlighted his technical skill and awareness.
Raspadori’s standout moment came in the 42nd minute following a well-placed cross from Mazzocchi. With a masterful touch, he controlled the ball in mid-air with his right foot before executing a stunning volley with his left, drawing applause from the crowd for his artistry.
Despite facing a side preparing for their Champions League campaign, Napoli had a shaky start but quickly found their rhythm, creating a flurry of scoring opportunities. Leonardo Spinazzola hit the crossbar early on (22’) from a corner, and later, he nearly found the net with a curling shot that just evaded Mazzocchi, who was poised for a potential goal. Kvaratskhelia was energetic throughout, forcing Brest’s goalkeeper, Bizot, into a superb save just before half-time.
After the break, Napoli maintained their momentum, with Meret making a crucial stop against Le Douaron—Brest’s only real threat of the half. The Italian side dominated possession and continued to press, often sending five players into the attacking area. Kvaratskhelia struck the post with a spectacular effort, while Mazzocchi squandered two excellent chances that were set up by the gifted Georgian.
As the match neared its end, coach Antonio Conte decided to rest most of his starting players, keeping Kvaratskhelia and Di Lorenzo on the pitch as cornerstones of his strategy. Though the final minutes were tense, highlighted by a minor scuffle between Natan and Magnetti, the Napoli squad displayed cohesion as they intervened to keep things calm, led by Conte himself.
While the absence of a traditional striker was felt, Napoli can take comfort in Raspadori’s capabilities, wearing the number 81 shirt with pride. In a fun twist, adding 8 and 1 together indeed brings the team’s fans to a hopeful realization—Napoli may still thrive even in the absence of a typical number 9.
