Napoli delivered a statement performance on Thursday night in Riyadh, overpowering AC Milan to book their place in the final of the Italian Super Cup, with Rasmus Højlund playing a decisive role in a polished and authoritative win. In a competition increasingly shaped by fine margins and high stakes, Napoli looked every bit a side rediscovering its edge, blending control, intensity and clinical finishing when it mattered most.
The Saudi Arabian capital once again played host to Italian football’s elite, and under the lights, Antonio Conte’s men showed composure and intent against familiar domestic rivals. The victory not only sends Napoli into Monday’s final but also provides a timely lift after recent league disappointment.
Napoli Set the Tone in Italian Super Cup Semi-Final
Napoli began the Italian Super Cup semi-final with purpose, pressing high and forcing AC Milan into early defensive decisions. The opening exchanges were cagey, but Napoli’s midfield control and width gradually tilted the contest in their favour. Milan struggled to sustain possession in advanced areas, while Napoli’s transitions carried clear threat.
The breakthrough arrived six minutes before half-time and was the reward for sustained pressure. Rasmus Højlund, operating with physical presence and intelligence, drove into the box and pulled the ball back sharply. Milan’s goalkeeper managed only a partial parry, pushing the ball straight into danger, where David Neres reacted quickest to bundle the ball over the line.
The goal shifted momentum decisively. Napoli went into the interval with confidence, while Milan were left regrouping, aware that lapses at this level are rarely forgiven. Conte’s side, disciplined and compact without the ball, ensured Milan found little room to respond before the break.
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Rasmus Højlund Delivers Decisive Italian Super Cup Moment
If the first goal set the platform, the second confirmed Napoli’s authority. On 63 minutes, Højlund delivered the defining moment of the Italian Super Cup semi-final. Receiving the ball with his back to goal, the former Manchester United striker turned sharply and unleashed a low, powerful strike that beat the goalkeeper cleanly.
It was a goal that underlined Højlund’s growing influence in big matches. His physicality troubled Milan’s defence throughout the night, while his movement consistently created space for teammates. Beyond the finish, his overall contribution — linking play, pressing defenders and occupying central areas — reflected a striker in rhythm and confidence.
For Napoli, the goal killed any momentum Milan hoped to build. The Serie A champions managed the remainder of the contest with maturity, slowing the tempo when required and denying Milan clear-cut chances. The defensive unit remained compact, while Napoli’s midfield continued to win second balls and dictate the flow.
Captain Giovanni di Lorenzo summed up the performance afterwards, highlighting both attitude and execution. “We put in a big performance, both in commitment and intent. It’s an important win for the team,” he said, a reflection of the collective focus that defined Napoli’s display.
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Italian Super Cup Final Offers Napoli Fresh Momentum
The win sends Napoli into Monday’s Italian Super Cup final, where they will face the winner of Friday’s second semi-final between Bologna and Inter Milan. For Conte’s side, the prospect of silverware carries added significance given their recent league setback.
Napoli came into the tournament on the back of a disappointing Serie A defeat to Udinese, a result that briefly stalled their domestic momentum. Sitting third in the league table, they remain firmly in the title race, just two points behind leaders Inter Milan and one adrift of AC Milan. This Super Cup victory, however, offers a psychological boost and an opportunity to reset their season narrative.
The Italian Super Cup has not been lifted by Napoli since 2014, and victory on Monday would mark their third triumph in the competition. With the tournament now staged in Saudi Arabia until 2029, the setting adds a global spotlight to an already high-profile occasion, increasing both pressure and prestige.
For Conte, known for his demanding standards and short-term impact, the performance in Riyadh will be particularly encouraging. Napoli looked organised, aggressive without being reckless, and ruthless when opportunities arose — hallmarks of a team aligning with their coach’s philosophy.
AC Milan, by contrast, were left frustrated. While they remain just one point ahead of Napoli in Serie A, this defeat exposed moments of vulnerability, particularly in defensive transitions. Their focus will now shift back to domestic matters, while Napoli march forward with renewed belief.
As the Italian Super Cup reaches its climax, Napoli appear energised by the challenge. With Højlund firing, leaders stepping up, and a final within reach, Conte’s side have turned a mid-season test into an opportunity. Monday’s showdown promises another intense chapter, but for now, Napoli can savour a win that felt both controlled and commanding.
