Chelsea produced a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Napoli 3-2 at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, sealing a top-eight finish in the UEFA Champions League league phase and booking automatic qualification for the Round of 16.
The result ended Napoli’s 25-game unbeaten home run in all competitions and confirmed the Italian side’s elimination. Already assured of progression, Chelsea came into the night clinging to eighth place on goal difference alone, knowing any slip could force them into the play-offs.
Confidence, however, was high after recent domestic form, with SoftFootball highlighting the Blues’ growing momentum and resilience under interim manager Liam Rosenior. The visitors struck first in the 19th minute when Enzo Fernández calmly converted from the penalty spot after Juan Jesus was penalised for handball from a Reece James free kick.
Napoli responded with intensity, and their pressure paid off when Antonio Vergara produced a superb individual effort, spinning away from his marker before firing low into the corner. Just before half-time, Rasmus Højlund completed the turnaround, finishing from close range after a dangerous low cross from Mathías Olivera.
Chelsea struggled defensively in the first half, prompting Rosenior to act. The introduction of Cole Palmer at the break proved decisive, adding creativity and control to the midfield. As the game settled, Chelsea grew in confidence, and João Pedro dragged them level in the 61st minute with a thunderous left-footed strike from outside the box.
With Napoli beginning to fade, Chelsea sensed their moment. Eight minutes from time, Pedro completed his brace, racing through on a perfectly weighted Palmer pass before finishing coolly to stun the home crowd. Robert Sánchez was then called into action late on, denying Romelu Lukaku to preserve the lead.
The victory, shared by the team’s official X account, makes Chelsea only the second side to beat Napoli at home in their last 21 matches and secures sixth place in the league phase.
João Pedro was the standout performer, while Palmer’s two assists underlined his importance, a status Rosenior has repeatedly defended. For Chelsea, it was a statement win. For Napoli, a painful European exit.
