Napoli are the first finalists of the 2025 Supercopa de Italia, after a commanding win over Milan in the semi-final in Riyadh. Antonio Conte’s side set the tempo, with goals from David Neres and Rasmus Hojlund, booking their place in Monday’s final against the winner of Bologna vs. Inter.

Despite being called up after a long injury layoff, Romelu Lukaku remained on the bench as Conte opted for caution to ensure a full recovery. On the other side, Milan were without Rafa Leao, sidelined due to a muscle issue sustained against Sassuolo and forced to watch from the stands.

The match, largely subdued, sparked to life in fleeting moments. Napoli immediately threatened with Elmas in the trident alongside Politano and Hojlund, but his shot from the edge of the box was comfortably saved by Maignan. Moments later, an acrobatic attempt by Loftus-Cheek for Milan was blocked by Milinkovic-Savic.

In the 22nd minute, the action intensified. Tomori delivered a cross from the byline, but Saelemaekers sent his volley over the bar. Napoli nearly capitalized on a defensive error from Maignan on a corner, but Elmas couldn’t find the target. Shortly after, Hojlund set up McTominay at the edge of the box, whose low drive narrowly missed the post.

As the first half neared its end, Napoli found the breakthrough. Hojlund, with his back to goal, turned and played a perfectly weighted through ball for Neres, who slotted home into an empty net. The Brazilian celebrated by running to embrace Lukaku on the bench. Hojlund immediately went close to doubling the lead with a diagonal shot, brilliantly saved by Maignan.

Napoli started the second half even brighter. Rrahmani unleashed a powerful strike from distance aimed at the top corner, only for Maignan to produce another superb save. In the 63rd minute, Napoli doubled their advantage: Hojlund powered into the box, won a physical duel with de Winter, and from a tight angle curled a perfect diagonal into the bottom corner.

Despite Allegri’s substitutions, Milan could not respond. Napoli controlled the remainder of the match, avenging their league defeat to the Rossoneri and securing a well-deserved place in the grand final on Monday in Riyadh.

R. Højlund

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