SSC Napoli vs Sassuolo Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Saturday, 17 January

SSC Napoli will face Sassuolo in an intriguing Serie A clash at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Saturday, 17 January. This match promises an exciting encounter as Napoli, renowned for their strong home performances, look to maintain their position among the league’s top teams. The Diego Armando Maradona Stadium will be buzzing with anticipation as fans gather to support their side in this crucial fixture.

Sassuolo, meanwhile, will be aiming to upset the odds and secure valuable points away from home. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance this season, making this a potentially tight contest. With Napoli’s attacking prowess and Sassuolo’s resilience, this match is set to be a fascinating watch for Serie A enthusiasts and those interested in betting tips. The outcome could have significant implications for both teams’ positions in the league.

SSC Napoli vs Sassuolo Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Napoli to Win	1.45

For this match between SSC Napoli and Sassuolo, my recommended betting tip is to back Napoli to win and over 2.5 goals in the match. Given Napoli’s strong form and Sassuolo’s struggles, this bet offers good value.

• Napoli have scored in 78% of their home matches this season, indicating a high likelihood of goals.
• Sassuolo are winless in six consecutive matches, suggesting they may struggle defensively against Napoli’s attack.
• SSC Napoli concede just 0.9 goals on average, making it likely they can control the match and outscore their opponents.

Betting Odds

SSC Napoli are the clear favourites in this Serie A clash, with betting odds of 1.45 reflecting their strong home advantage at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. Sassuolo, on the other hand, are seen as the underdogs with odds of 7.5, suggesting a tough outing for the visitors.

Betting Tip	Odds
Napoli to win	1.45
Draw	4.27
Sassuolo to win	7.5

For those considering alternative markets, the odds for a draw stand at 4.27, which may appeal to those expecting a tighter contest. Given Napoli’s attacking strength, punters might also consider betting on over 2.5 goals, as the match could see plenty of action.

SSC Napoli Analysis & Past Performance

SSC Napoli have demonstrated solid but somewhat inconsistent form recently, with two wins and three draws in their last five Serie A outings. Notably, they secured consecutive 2-0 victories against Lazio and Cremonese, showcasing their defensive capabilities with clean sheets. However, their inability to turn draws into wins, as seen in their recent 0-0 stalemate against Parma, highlights a need for greater attacking efficiency.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
SSC Napoli	Parma Calcio 1913	0 – 0 (Draw)	Serie A	14 Jan 2026
Inter	SSC Napoli	2 – 2 (Draw)	Serie A	11 Jan 2026
SSC Napoli	Verona	2 – 2 (Draw)	Serie A	7 Jan 2026
Lazio	SSC Napoli	0 – 2 (Win)	Serie A	4 Jan 2026
Cremonese	SSC Napoli	0 – 2 (Win)	Serie A	28 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• DDDWW

Napoli’s attack has been relatively effective, averaging 1.60 goals per match over their last five games. Despite this, they have struggled to maintain a consistent scoring streak, particularly at home, where they’ve drawn twice in their last five matches. Defensively, they’ve been resilient, conceding an average of just 0.80 goals per game and achieving three clean sheets, indicating robust defensive strategies. Their home form remains unbeaten, but their home win ratio stands at 60%, suggesting room for improvement in converting draws into victories.

SSC Napoli Suspensions & Injuries

SSC Napoli are facing a challenging period with several key players sidelined through injury. Kevin De Bruyne’s absence due to a thigh injury until early March 2026 significantly impacts their creative midfield options. Billy Gilmour is also out with a groin injury, expected back by mid-February, limiting depth in central areas. André-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Romelu Lukaku are both dealing with muscle issues but are expected to return by late January. The absence of these players necessitates tactical adjustments, especially in midfield and attack.

Alex Meret’s shoulder injury, with a return expected in early February, means Vanja Milinković-Savić will continue as the primary goalkeeper. While Milinković-Savić is a capable replacement, Meret’s absence could be felt in terms of experience and distribution from the back. The team may need to rely more on their defensive solidity to compensate for the missing creative and attacking options.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Kevin De Bruyne	Thigh injury	Early March 2026
Billy Gilmour	Groin injury	Mid February 2026
Andre Zambo Anguissa	Muscle injury	Late January 2026
Romelu Lukaku	Physical discomfort	Late January 2026
David Neres Campos	Ankle injury	Late January 2026
Alex Meret	Shoulder injury	Early February 2026

With no suspensions affecting SSC Napoli, the focus remains on how the current squad can adapt to these injury challenges. Antonio Conte may opt for a more conservative approach, utilising available midfielders like Stanislav Lobotka and Scott McTominay to maintain control and stability. The reliance on Rasmus Højlund up front will be crucial, as he leads the line in the absence of Romelu Lukaku.

These injuries could influence betting markets, with SSC Napoli potentially seen as less dominant given their reduced attacking threat. However, the depth and quality of the squad mean they remain competitive, and Conte’s tactical acumen will be key in navigating this period.

SSC Napoli Key Players

Leading SSC Napoli’s attack is Rasmus Højlund, the team’s top scorer with 6 goals this season. Højlund’s clinical finishing and ability to exploit defensive gaps make him a constant threat to Sassuolo’s backline. His physicality and positioning are crucial, especially in converting chances created by the midfield.

In midfield, Stanislav Lobotka and Scott McTominay are pivotal. Lobotka’s vision and passing range allow him to dictate the tempo, while McTominay’s physical presence and box-to-box ability provide both defensive support and attacking impetus. Noa Lang, operating from the wing, brings flair and creativity, often cutting inside to create scoring opportunities.

Expected lineup for SSC Napoli:

• Goalkeeper: Vanja Milinković-Savić
• Defence: Amir Rrahmani, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno
• Midfield: Stanislav Lobotka, Scott McTominay, Matteo Politano, Pasquale Mazzocchi, Mathías Olivera, Noa Lang
• Forward: Rasmus Højlund

Defensively, Giovanni Di Lorenzo’s leadership and Amir Rrahmani’s solidity are essential in maintaining Napoli’s defensive organisation. Di Lorenzo’s ability to push forward and contribute to attacks adds an extra dimension to Napoli’s play. Overall, these key players are integral to SSC Napoli’s tactical approach, combining solid defence with a dynamic and versatile attack.

SSC Napoli Tactics and Formation

SSC Napoli Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Rasmus Højlund
• Midfield Engine: Stanislav Lobotka and Scott McTominay
• Defensive Solidity: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession play with emphasis on wing-backs.

Napoli’s 3-4-2-1 formation, under Antonio Conte, emphasises a solid defensive trio with Amir Rrahmani, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, and Alessandro Buongiorno. This setup has been crucial in maintaining clean sheets, with the team achieving three in their last five outings. The absence of key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku due to injury places additional emphasis on the midfield’s role in both defence and attack.

Offensively, Napoli rely on the dynamic play of wing-backs Pasquale Mazzocchi and Mathías Olivera, who provide width and support in transitions. Rasmus Højlund, the team’s top scorer with six goals, plays a pivotal role in converting chances created by the midfield duo of Stanislav Lobotka and Scott McTominay.

Defensively, the team have shown resilience, conceding an average of just 0.80 goals per game in recent matches. The high possession style, evidenced by 69% possession against Parma Calcio 1913, allows Napoli to control the game and limit opposition chances, a strategy that has been effective in securing results.

Sassuolo Analysis & Past Performance

Sassuolo’s recent form has been challenging, with the team suffering three defeats and securing only two draws in their last five matches. Their most recent outing resulted in a 0-2 loss against Roma, highlighting their struggles in front of goal and the defensive vulnerabilities that have plagued their recent performances.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Roma	Sassuolo	2 – 0 (Loss)	Serie A	10 Jan 2026
Sassuolo	Juventus	0 – 3 (Loss)	Serie A	6 Jan 2026
Sassuolo	Parma Calcio 1913	1 – 1 (Draw)	Serie A	3 Jan 2026
Bologna	Sassuolo	1 – 1 (Draw)	Serie A	28 Dec 2025
Sassuolo	Torino	0 – 1 (Loss)	Serie A	21 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
In the last five games, Sassuolo average just 0.40 goals per match, while conceding 1.60, reflecting their difficulties at both ends of the pitch. They have failed to keep a single clean sheet during this period, underlining defensive frailties. Away from home, their performance improves slightly with a win ratio of 20%, having won one, drawn two, and lost two of their last five away fixtures.

Performance Statistics:

• LLDDL

Over the last ten games, Sassuolo have managed to score in six matches, with an average of 1.20 goals per game. However, they have been less than solid defensively, conceding 1.50 goals on average, which has contributed to their current league position of 11th with 23 points. Key player Andrea Pinamonti, with four goals this season, remains their primary attacking threat.

Sassuolo Suspensions & Injuries

Sassuolo are facing a difficult situation with several key players out due to injury. Domenico Berardi’s absence, due to a thigh injury, is a significant blow to their attacking prowess. Renowned for his creativity and goal-scoring ability, his unavailability could force Fabio Grosso to rely more heavily on Armand Laurienté and Andrea Pinamonti to spearhead the attack. The midfield is also affected with Daniel Boloca and Kristian Thorstvedt sidelined, necessitating reliance on the likes of Luca Lipani and Nemanja Matić, who will need to step up to maintain control in midfield.

Edoardo Pieragnolo and Fali Candé are doubtful, which could impact defensive depth. With Filippo Romagna also out, Sassuolo’s defensive line will lean on Sebastian Walukiewicz and Jay Idzes for stability. This might push Sassuolo to adopt a more cautious approach, focusing on maintaining a solid defensive structure to mitigate the impact of these absences.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Edoardo Pieragnolo	Muscle injury	Doubtful
Filippo Romagna	Calf injury	Unknown
Domenico Berardi	Thigh injury	Unknown
Daniel Boloca	Muscle injury	Doubtful
Cristian Volpato	Muscle injury	Late January 2026
Kristian Thorstvedt	Shoulder injury	Late January 2026
Fali Candé	Physical discomfort	Doubtful

The tactical impact of these injuries on Sassuolo cannot be understated. The team may need to adjust their formation or playing style, perhaps adopting a more compact and defensive setup to compensate for the lack of depth and experience in key areas. This could influence betting markets, as Sassuolo might be seen as less likely to secure a win against a formidable Napoli side, potentially affecting odds and betting strategies.

Sassuolo Key Players

Andrea Pinamonti stands out as Sassuolo’s top scorer with 4 goals this season. His ability to find space and capitalise on scoring opportunities will be pivotal against Napoli’s defence. Pinamonti’s partnership with Armand Laurienté in the forward line provides a dynamic combination of pace and precision, potentially unsettling the opposition’s backline.

In midfield, the experienced Nemanja Matić will play a crucial role in dictating the tempo and distributing the ball effectively. His presence provides stability and allows players like Ismaël Koné to venture forward and support the attack. Defensively, Sebastian Walukiewicz anchors the backline, using his strength and aerial ability to thwart Napoli’s offensive threats.

Expected lineup for Sassuolo

• Goalkeeper: Arijanet Muric
• Defenders: Sebastian Walukiewicz, Jay Idzes, Tarik Muharemovic, Josh Doig
• Midfielders: Luca Lipani, Nemanja Matić, Ismaël Koné
• Forwards: Alieu Fadera, Andrea Pinamonti, Armand Laurienté

Sassuolo’s tactical approach heavily relies on their key players’ strengths. The attacking prowess of Pinamonti and Laurienté offers a direct threat, while Matić’s midfield control enables a structured build-up play. Walukiewicz’s defensive solidity is essential in maintaining a compact shape, highlighting Sassuolo’s intent to balance attack and defence effectively.

Sassuolo Tactics and Formation

Sassuolo Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Andrea Pinamonti
• Midfield Anchor: Nemanja Matić
• Defensive Challenge: Conceded 8 goals in last 5 games
• Notable Strategy: Quick transitions and reliance on wide play.

Sassuolo’s 4-3-3 formation is designed to enhance their offensive transitions, with Andrea Pinamonti leading the line. The midfield, anchored by Nemanja Matić, offers a blend of experience and defensive cover, crucial in breaking up opposition play and initiating attacks.

Defensively, the back four of Sebastian Walukiewicz, Jay Idzes, Tarik Muharemovic, and Josh Doig have struggled to maintain clean sheets, conceding 8 goals in their last 5 matches. This highlights a potential vulnerability, particularly against teams with high pressing and quick forwards.

Offensively, Sassuolo aim to exploit the flanks through wingers Alieu Fadera and Armand Laurienté, providing width and pace. Despite their recent struggles, this approach allows them to stretch defences and create opportunities, although they must improve their conversion rate to capitalise on these chances.

SSC Napoli vs Sassuolo Head-to-Head Record

In their head-to-head record, SSC Napoli have dominated Sassuolo with 15 wins out of 24 encounters, while Sassuolo have managed just 2 victories, and 7 matches have ended in draws. The last meeting saw Napoli secure a 2-0 win away at Sassuolo in August 2025, continuing their strong form in Serie A.

When these teams last met at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in August 2023, Napoli came out on top with a 2-0 victory. Historically, Napoli have been formidable at home against Sassuolo, often securing comfortable wins.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	League	Date
Sassuolo	SSC Napoli	0 – 2	Serie A	23 August 2025
Sassuolo	SSC Napoli	1 – 6	Serie A	28 February 2024
SSC Napoli	Sassuolo	2 – 0	Serie A	27 August 2023
Sassuolo	SSC Napoli	0 – 2	Serie A	17 February 2023
SSC Napoli	Sassuolo	4 – 0	Serie A	29 October 2022