Riyadh is Blue: Napoli Crowned Supercoppa Champions After 11-Year Wait

 



The drought is over. For the first time since 2014, SSC Napoli are the kings of the Supercoppa Italiana. In a tactical masterclass at the King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh on Monday, December 22, 2025, Antonio Conte’s side defeated Bologna 2–0 to lift the first silverware of the Italian season.

The victory marks Napoli’s third Supercoppa title in their history and serves as a powerful statement of intent for the reigning Serie A champions.


The David Neres Masterclass

If the semi-final against AC Milan belonged to Rasmus Højlund, the final was the David Neres show. The Brazilian winger, who has been in scintillating form since the winter break, was the difference-maker once again.

The Breakthrough (39'): After a tense opening half-hour where Bologna’s defense held firm, Neres broke the deadlock. Receiving a pass from Scott McTominay, he drove toward the edge of the area and unleashed a trademark left-footed curler that flew into the top corner.

The Clincher (57'): Neres doubled the lead early in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up between Jhon Lucumí and goalkeeper Federico Ravaglia. He pounced on a loose ball, dinked it over the keeper, and wheeled away to celebrate with the travelling Neapolitan fans.


Conte’s Defensive Wall

While Neres provided the flair, Napoli’s defense provided the steel. Antonio Conte set his team up to be impenetrable, limiting a spirited Bologna side to zero shots on target throughout the 90 minutes.

The "McTominay" Factor: Scott McTominay was immense in the engine room, breaking up play and providing the transition for both goals.

Bologna's Valiant Effort: Under Vincenzo Italiano, Bologna reached their first-ever Supercoppa final by eliminating Inter Milan in the semi-finals. However, they lacked the clinical edge needed to break down a Conte-drilled backline.

Historical Significance This trophy carries immense weight for the Partenopei:

End of the Wait: This is Napoli's first Supercoppa win since they defeated Juventus in Doha back in 2014.

Conte’s First Trophy: It marks Antonio Conte’s first piece of silverware as Napoli manager, coming just months after leading the club to the Scudetto.

Third Title: Napoli now joins the elite list of clubs with three or more Supercoppa titles (1990, 2014, 2025).

"We are building something special here," Conte told reporters while draped in the Italian flag. "To win this trophy in front of these fans, 

against a very tough Bologna team, shows the character of this group. We celebrate tonight, but tomorrow we focus back on the league."

Feature,Details

Score,Napoli 2–0 Bologna

Scorers,"David Neres (39', 57')"

Man of the Match,David Neres (Napoli)

Venue,"King Saud University Stadium, Riyadh"


The Verdict: With the first trophy of the season secured, Napoli looks like a juggernaut. They return to Italy as heroes, ready to defend their Serie A lead.


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