Naples, Italy – Napoli secured a crucial 2-0 Champions League win over Qarabag on Wednesday, with Scott McTominay starring in a performance that boosted the Serie A side’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages. The victory also coincided with the fifth anniversary of Diego Maradona’s death, adding an emotional edge to the match at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

McTominay’s Heroics Lead Napoli

The Manchester United loanee was central to Napoli’s victory. In the 65th minute, McTominay reacted swiftly to a saved effort to head past Qarabag goalkeeper Mateusz Kochalski from close range. Seven minutes later, his acrobatic shot was deflected by defender Marko Jankovic into his own net, doubling Napoli’s advantage.

Earlier in the second half, Rasmus Hojlund had a penalty saved by Kochalski in the 56th minute. McTominay, showing sportsmanship, raised his hands in apology to the home fans when substituted following a string of missed opportunities earlier in the campaign.

First Half Frustration

The opening 45 minutes were cagey, with Napoli creating few clear-cut chances. David Neres came closest to breaking the deadlock with an attempted bicycle kick reminiscent of McTominay’s style in the 35th minute, only for Kochalski to make a spectacular save.

Qarabag, who had already achieved impressive results this season against Benfica and Chelsea, were disciplined in defense, frustrating Napoli’s attacks and keeping the visitors in contention for much of the first half.

Key Moments in the Second Half

Napoli were awarded a penalty when captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was fouled, but Hojlund’s effort was saved, keeping the game level temporarily. McTominay’s opener shifted the momentum in Napoli’s favor, followed by numerous chances including Neres hitting the crossbar and Hojlund missing an unmarked header.

The defining moment came when McTominay’s subsequent effort deflected off Jankovic, sealing a 2-0 win and ensuring Napoli moved up the Champions League group stage standings.

Tribute to Diego Maradona

Fans paid homage to club legend Diego Maradona, chanting his name in the 10th minute to correspond with his iconic shirt number. The tribute added a poignant layer to the evening, combining celebration of Napoli’s footballing prowess with remembrance of one of the game’s greatest figures.

Champions League Implications

Napoli’s win moves them to 18th in the group stage standings with seven points, while Qarabag drop to 16th, also on seven points. Despite a slow start with only one win in their opening four league-phase fixtures, the victory keeps Napoli in contention for a knockout-stage berth.

• Next fixtures:
  • Napoli travel to face Benfica in Lisbon on 10 December (20:00 GMT)
  • Qarabag host Ajax on the same day (17:45 GMT)

Player of the Match

• Scott McTominay – Rating: 9.72
• Other notable performers:
  • M. Olivera (Qarabag) – 6.93
  • S. Lobotka (Napoli) – 6.84
  • David Neres (Napoli) – 6.69
  • G. Di Lorenzo (Napoli) – 6.81

McTominay’s influence on the match was decisive, highlighting his impact as a midfielder on loan and demonstrating Napoli’s growing cohesion under Antonio Conte.