Napoli vs Cremonese Preview: Betting Tips, Team News, and Key Stats

Seeking an immediate Serie A response on Friday night, Napoli will host Cremonese at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

**Napoli** The hosts saw their impressive run come to an end with a disappointing 2-0 defeat to historic rivals Lazio, marking their first Serie A loss since late February. Despite surrendering their second-place position, Napoli remain firmly in contention for a Champions League spot and will view this fixture as a prime opportunity to bounce back. Having secured a 2-0 victory over Cremonese in their previous meeting on December 28th, manager Antonio Conte will demand a repeat performance.

**Napoli Team News** Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku remains unavailable, while Italian defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo continues to recover from a long-term knee injury. Danish forward Rasmus Hojlund, who has scored 10 goals since joining on loan from Manchester United, will lead the attack. Alessandro Buongiorno, reportedly attracting Premier League interest, is set to start in central defense.

**Cremonese** Returning to Serie A this season, Cremonese face an uphill battle to avoid relegation. Sitting just above the drop zone on goal difference, they have managed only one win in their last 19 league matches—a streak dating back to December 7th. Following consecutive defeats to Bologna and Cagliari after the international break, Marco Giampaolo’s side enter this clash as heavy underdogs. Their previous encounter with Napoli ended in a 2-0 defeat, and another tough test awaits in Naples.

**Cremonese Team News** Former Leicester striker Jamie Vardy remains doubtful due to a muscle injury, while Youssef Maleh could return from suspension. Veteran forward Milan Djuric, yet to score since joining from Parma in January, may start up front, with ex-Inter Milan goalkeeper Emil Audero set to feature between the posts.

**Key Factors to Consider** - Napoli defeated Cremonese 2-0 in their reverse fixture on December 28th. - Last week’s loss to Lazio was Napoli’s first home Serie A defeat this season. - Cremonese have won just once in their last 19 matches. - The visitors have lost seven of their last eight away games. - Napoli have kept only one clean sheet in their last eight home matches.

**Conclusion** After their unbeaten run was halted by Lazio, Napoli will be eager to reclaim second place with a victory over struggling Cremonese. Given their previous 2-0 win in Lombardy, another dominant performance is expected.

**Verdict:** Napoli win **Best Odds:** 2/5 **Bookmaker:** Luckster