Napoli head into this crucial Champions League clash looking to respond after a very difficult week. Antonio Conte’s defending Serie A champions were heavily beaten 3–0 by Juventus in Turin, a result that left them nine points behind league leaders Inter Milan.
That defeat came just days after a frustrating draw away to 10-man Copenhagen in the league phase. Despite taking the lead through Scott McTominay, Napoli failed to press their advantage after the Danish side went down to 10 men, allowing Jordan Larsson to equalise. The result leaves Napoli 25th in the 36-team table, outside the top 24 on goal difference.
Softfootball reported that a win at the Maradona would significantly boost Napoli’s chances of reaching the knockout playoffs.
They have been strong at home in Europe, picking up seven points from a possible nine in this competition and remaining unbeaten at the Maradona since December 2024.
Chelsea arrive in Naples needing points of their own. The Blues are pushing for automatic qualification and come into the match full of confidence after a 3–1 win over Crystal Palace.
Watch highlight below;
The Blues are now training ahead of setting off for Naples. On their official X handle, Chelsea shared a video with the caption:
The Blues are now training ahead of setting off for Naples… 🎬.
That result made it three wins in a row across all competitions and four victories in their last five matches.
However, Chelsea’s European record in Italy remains a concern. They have won just two of their 13 away matches in the country and have lost six of their last seven visits, despite keeping their top-eight hopes alive with a gritty 1-0 Champions League win over Pafos.
Team News
Napoli welcome Romelu Lukaku back to the squad, but he is unlikely to start against his former club, with Rasmus Hojlund expected to lead the attack. Scott McTominay remains Napoli’s main goal threat in Europe.
Chelsea may be without Cole Palmer, who is recovering from a thigh problem. Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo and Romeo Lavia are also unavailable.
Possible Lineups
Napoli: Meret; Di Lorenzo, Jesus, Buongiorno; Spinazzola, Lobotka, McTominay, Gutierrez; Vergara, Elmas; Hojlund
Chelsea: Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Badiashile, Cucurella; James, Caicedo; Pedro Neto, Fernandez, Garnacho; Joao Pedr
Prediction
Both teams need a win, but Napoli’s strong home form and the intense atmosphere at the Maradona could give them the edge in a tight contest.
Where to watch
The UEFA Champions League match between Napoli and Chelsea will take place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, with an 8:00 pm GMT (3:00 pm ET) kick-off.
In the UK, the game will be shown live on TNT Sports 4 from 6:30 pm GMT, with streaming available via the discovery+ app and website. In the US, fans can watch the match live on Paramount+.
International coverage is handled by local Champions League rights holders, including Stan Sport in Australia and Sony Sports/SonyLIV in India. Supporters can also follow live updates and text commentary through the official Chelsea Match Centre.
