Napoli was chased on Saturday, after a clinical attack by Juventus -Nieuwkomer Randal Kolo Muani. The attacker only needed 43 minutes to announce his presence and to challenge Dusan Vlahović as more than just an alternative option.
Juventus, under the guidance of Thiago Motta, looked well drilled and determined, as is usual under the tactical approach of the coach. However, this was at the expense of their attacking game, created with few chances to bother Napoli.
Nevertheless, Napoli's resilience and determination shone, even in the absence of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who left the club only a few days earlier. Conte has managed to impressively adjust his team and compensate for the loss of the Georgian star, a player who is generally considered one of the best in the world during his time in Naples.
Conte's tactical control has been crucial to keep Napoli at the top of the rankings. The match changed thanks to André-Frank Zambo Anguisa, who was reinvented under the system of Conte, and Romelu Lukaku, whose punishment sealed the 2-1 victory.
The result not only reinforced the position of Napoli at the top, but also left Juventus fans, because their team now follows with a stunning 16 points, a scenario that few could have represented at the start of the season. Almost twenty points: it's incredible.
Conte's pedigree as a coach is in stark contrast to Motta, who still has to settle at the highest level, even if he has done great things with Bologna. Even with the remarkable firmness of Juventus, according to 13 competitions before this competition, Napoli has found a way to take advantage of opportunities.
Conte, never anyone to settle, also insists on reinforcements in the transfer market. He has been clear about his desire for players with a lot of caliber, even if they are at high costs. Lukaku, insisting a tent to conte's, finally delivered a decisive moment in a big competition, and suppressed doubts about his value despite his inconsistent start.
The victory over Juventus was particularly sweet for Napoli, given the fierce rivalry between the two clubs. It is remarkable that this Juventus' first competition was the defeat of the season, proof of their resilience under motta.
Napoli, although not without errors (and that is clear), seems to have a considerable advantage as the season progresses. In contrast to Inter Milan, the most important rival of Napoli for the Scudetto, Conte's Kant can concentrate on competition matches without the distraction of extensive cup obligations.
Conte's experience and tactical insight have determined him not to let this golden chance slip away. Although there is still a long way ahead and many matches can be played, the current form of Napoli positions them as the clear favorites for the title.
The fact that Int has a deeper team only underlines the size of conte's performance so far. He has transformed Napoli into a team that is able to overcome adversity and strive for the ultimate prize: the Scudetto.
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