Scott McTominay made an immediate impact as Napoli claimed a narrow 1-0 success away at Cagliari. The midfielder found the net just 90 seconds after kickoff, reacting quickly to a loose ball following a delivery from the right flank and finishing from close range.
That early moment effectively determined the outcome, as Napoli controlled proceedings throughout. The visitors dictated play and maintained their advantage comfortably, while the home side struggled to create any meaningful threat in attack.
Cagliari failed to register a single effort on target during the entire encounter, highlighting the gap in performance between the two teams. Napoli’s ability to manage the game after taking the lead ensured there were no serious scares as they secured another important result.
Conte’s side climb table with winning run
Under the guidance of Antonio Conte, Napoli continued their strong form, collecting a fourth consecutive victory in the league. This latest success allowed them to move into second position in the standings.
They now sit two points ahead of AC Milan, who are set to face Torino, while leaders Inter Milan prepare for their fixture against Fiorentina. The result strengthens Napoli’s position as they continue to chase the top of the table.
In addition to the win, Conte received a further boost as Kevin De Bruyne completed a full 90 minutes for the first time since sustaining a hamstring injury in October, marking a positive step in his return to fitness.
Cagliari’s struggle continues amid relegation concerns
For Cagliari, the defeat extended a difficult run of form, with the team now without a league victory in seven matches since the end of January. The continued lack of positive results has left them in a precarious situation as the season approaches its final stages.
They remain in 15th place, but their position is far from secure. With eight rounds still to play, the gap to the relegation zone stands at six points, while the teams below have an additional match to play, increasing the pressure.
Unless results improve, Cagliari risk being drawn deeper into the battle to avoid relegation, making the closing weeks of the campaign increasingly significant for their survival hopes.