Under the tense night sky of Naples, the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona prepares for a decisive battle. On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, Napoli and Chelsea meet in a final Champions League league-phase match where the stakes could not be higher for both clubs.
For Chelsea, led by new manager Liam Rosenior, a victory is the clearest path to secure a coveted top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the round of 16.
For Napoli, managed by former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, only a win offers a glimmer of hope to extend their European campaign and avoid a humiliating early exit.
The historical echoes are impossible to ignore. The clubs’ only previous two-legged encounter in 2012 saw Chelsea overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit in Naples to win 4-1 at Stamford Bridge, a comeback that famously propelled them to their first Champions League title.
This time, there is no second leg. For Conte, it is a chance to salvage pride against the club he once led to Premier League glory, while for Chelsea’s travelling fans, already shaken by reports of disturbances in the city, the focus is squarely on the pitch and securing a result that matches their growing optimism under Rosenior.
Team news and predicted tactical battles
Antonio Conte faces a monumental selection headache. Napoli’s squad has been decimated by injuries, with Conte himself likening the situation to a “boat… out at sea in a storm”.
The absentee list is extensive and includes key creative forces like Kevin De Bruyne and David Neres, midfield anchor Frank Anguissa, defender Amir Rrahmani, and first-choice goalkeeper Vanja Milinković-Savić.
This forces Conte into a pragmatic setup, likely a 3-4-2-1 formation built on organisation and direct play. The entire goal threat has fallen to two former Manchester United players: striker Rasmus Højlund and, more crucially, midfielder Scott McTominay.
McTominay has been Napoli’s Champions League saviour, scoring four of their six goals in the competition this season. His aerial threat and late runs into the box will be Napoli’s primary weapon.
The potential second-half introduction of Romelu Lukaku, recently back from injury, could provide a physical focal point if Napoli are chasing the game.
In contrast, Chelsea arrive with momentum. Liam Rosenior has overseen four wins in his first five games, including the last three consecutively. The major boost is the return of Cole Palmer, who has travelled with the squad after recovering from a thigh issue.
His creativity, even if deployed from the bench, significantly elevates Chelsea’s attacking options. Rosenior is expected to stick with the 4-2-3-1 system that has brought stability, focusing on controlled possession and building through midfield metronome Moisés Caicedo, whose passing accuracy under pressure has been exceptional.
Chelsea’s injuries, to defenders Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo, and midfielder Roméo Lavia, are manageable within a deeper squad. The tactical battle will see Chelsea’s patient buildup tested against Napoli’s intense mid-block and set-piece prowess.
The duel between McTominay and Chelsea’s holding midfielders, and the ability of Chelsea’s full-backs to handle Napoli’s wing-backs, could define the match.
Betting tips and match prediction
The unique pressures on both teams and their contrasting styles make this a fascinating match for bettors. The consensus is that goals are likely.
Over 2.5 total goals: This is a popular pick. Chelsea have scored in 20 consecutive major European games, while Napoli’s defensive injuries suggest they are vulnerable. Both teams have the attacking talent to contribute to a high-scoring affair.
Scott McTominay anytime goalscorer: With Napoli’s attack depleted, the Scottish midfielder is their clear target man. He has a proven track record of delivering in big moments in this competition and is a constant threat from set-pieces.
Alejandro Garnacho Over 1.5 shots: The Chelsea winger is in confident form and tends to be active in away games. With space likely to open up as Napoli push forward, he should have opportunities to test the goalkeeper.
Final score prediction: Napoli 1-1 Chelsea
This is a classic clash of desperate need versus confident form, further complicated by Chelsea’s poor historical record in Italy. Napoli’s incredible home fortress, they have lost just once at the Maradona in their last 20 Champions League matches, cannot be discounted.
Expect a tense, physical match where Napoli’s urgency and set-piece strength, likely via McTominay, will cancel out Chelsea’s more fluid play. A draw eliminates Napoli and likely forces Chelsea into the playoff round, a scenario that reflects the knife-edge drama of this final matchday.