Napoli delivered a convincing performance to defeat Cremonese 4-0, a result that dropped the visitors into the Serie A relegation zone. The hosts made an immediate impact, taking the lead just three minutes in through Scott McTominay after being set up by Kevin De Bruyne, who recorded his first league assist since arriving from Manchester City last summer.
Napoli maintained control and doubled their advantage before halftime when Rasmus Højlund saw his effort deflect off Filippo Terracciano and past his own goalkeeper. The pressure continued to mount on the struggling visitors as the home side dictated the tempo.
Just before the break, De Bruyne added a goal to his earlier assist, finishing from close range inside a crowded penalty area to extend the lead to three. The sequence highlighted Napoli’s attacking efficiency and Cremonese’s defensive difficulties.
Second-half control and missed opportunity
After the interval, Napoli showed no signs of easing off. Alisson Santos added a fourth goal early in the second half with an individual effort, further underlining the gap between the two sides on the night.
Despite their commanding lead, Napoli had a chance to increase the margin even further late in the match. McTominay stepped up for a penalty but was denied by Emil Audero, who produced an impressive save to keep the scoreline from becoming even heavier.
Cremonese struggled throughout and were unable to respond, as Napoli comfortably saw out the remainder of the game without conceding.
Standings impact for both sides
The defeat left Cremonese in 18th place, level on points with Lecce but behind on goal difference. Lecce has the opportunity to move clear of the drop zone with at least a draw against Verona in their upcoming match.
For Napoli, the victory strengthened their position near the top of the table. They moved into second place, sitting three points ahead of AC Milan while remaining nine points behind leaders Inter Milan.