Both clubs share a rich history tied to the legendary Diego Maradona and enjoyed domestic success last season. However, neither team has been able to replicate their championship form this season, with lackluster performances in the group stage of the Champions League.
Despite finishing as runners-up in Group C, Napoli secured their spot in the knockout rounds with three wins from their other four fixtures against Braga and Union Berlin. Now, they aim to overcome Barcelona, a team they've struggled against in their previous encounters.
Calzona steps into the Napoli dugout amidst a challenging time, replacing Walter Mazzarri. With Napoli currently struggling to find their form, Calzona faces a daunting task ahead.
The Italian champions have been underwhelming lately, with their recent draw against Genoa highlighting their offensive struggles, particularly without last season's top scorer, Victor Osimhen. However, Napoli remains undefeated in their last five league matches at Stadio Maradona.
In contrast, Barcelona finished first in Group H but have faced inconsistency throughout the season. Despite their away form in La Liga, they have struggled on the road in the Champions League knockout stages in recent years.
Both teams enter the match with their own set of challenges and aspirations, making it a highly anticipated clash in the Champions League's last 16.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Victor Osimhen played a key role in Nigeria's journey to the Africa Cup of Nations final, starting in all seven games. After a brief rest following the tournament, Napoli's leading striker is ready to return to action.Osimhen is expected to replace Giovanni Simeone, who has been struggling to find form. Additionally, with Juan Jesus back from suspension, Napoli's coach Francesco Calzona has a fully fit squad to choose from.
Pasquale Mazzocchi, Cyril Ngonge, and Hamed Traore have been included in Napoli's UEFA list for the knockout stages, but Piotr Zielinski, who is set to leave the club in the summer, has been left out.
On the other side, Barcelona will be missing several key players due to injuries, including Alejandro Balde, Gavi, Marcos Alonso, Sergi Roberto, and Ferran Torres. Joao Felix's availability is also uncertain due to an ankle problem.
Vitor Roque, Barcelona's main January signing, could make his Champions League debut, and young talent Lamine Yamal will be eager to make an impact, aiming to become the youngest scorer in the competition's history.
They could join Robert Lewandowski, who despite not scoring in his last four Champions League appearances, has been in fine form in the league, netting in his last three outings and leading Barcelona's scoring charts this season with 17 goals.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Napoli possible starting lineup:Meret; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Jesus, Rui; Anguissa, Lobotka, Cajuste; Politano, Osimhen, Kvaratskhelia
Barcelona possible starting lineup:
Ter Stegen; Kounde, Araujo, Martinez, Cancelo; De Jong, Gundogan, Pedri; Yamal, Lewandowski, Roque
EXPERT PREDICTION
Napoli 1-2 Barcelona
