Napoli and Chelsea Face High-Stakes Champions League Showdown in Naples
NAPLES, 28 January 2026 – The UEFA Champions League League Phase reaches a dramatic conclusion tonight as SSC Napoli host Chelsea FC at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. With knockout round qualification on the line for both clubs, the encounter pits Antonio Conte’s Italian champions against the reigning Club World Cup holders in a must-win fixture for the hosts.
The Stakes: A Final Push for the Knockouts
Entering the final matchday, the standings leave little room for error. Chelsea, sitting on 13 points from seven matches, are assured of a top-24 finish but can secure direct passage to the round of 16 with a victory, potentially rising as high as third. For Napoli, the situation is more precarious. With only 8 points from a record of two wins, two draws, and three losses, the Partenopei currently sit outside the qualifying spots. A win is essential to have any chance of reaching the knockout play-off round, making this a final stand for Conte’s side in this year’s competition.
Key Facts & Team Form
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Competition | UEFA Champions League, League Phase – Matchday 8 |
| Date & Time | 28 January 2026, 20:00 CET / 19:00 GMT |
| Venue | Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, Naples |
| Napoli’s Form (Serie A) | 4th place, 43 points from 22 games; lost 3-0 to Juventus last weekend. |
| Chelsea’s Recent Form | Unbeaten in 20 of last 21 across all competitions; beat Pafos and Brentford recently. |
| Napoli’s UCL Home Record | Only 1 loss in last 20 home Champions League matches (12 wins, 7 draws). |
Team News & Predicted Tactics
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has travelled with a strong squad, though selection dilemmas remain. Robert Sanchez is expected to start in goal, with a defensive line likely featuring Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, and Trevoh Chalobah. Captain Reece James could be deployed in a hybrid midfield role to add physicality alongside Moises Caicedo. Further forward, the creative burden may fall to Enzo Fernandez, with Joao Pedro leading the line. Decisions on Cole Palmer and the young Brazilian winger Estevao are pending.
Napoli, meanwhile, are grappling with a significant injury crisis that has severely depleted Antonio Conte’s options. The Italian manager will be forced to field a patched-up side against his former club, a situation that Chelsea will look to exploit. The Partenopei’s need for a win may force an aggressive approach, potentially leaving space for Chelsea’s attackers on the counter.
Managerial Narrative: Conte vs His Former Club
The match carries a poignant subplot with Antonio Conte facing Chelsea, the club he led to the Premier League title in the 2016/17 season. His departure marked the end of Chelsea’s last domestic championship, a fact not lost on the Blues’ support. For Conte, defeating his old employers would not only keep Napoli’s European dreams alive but also serve as a personal statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Napoli need to qualify?
Napoli must win against Chelsea to have any chance of finishing in the top 24 and securing a spot in the knockout play-off round. Even a draw would see them eliminated from this season’s Champions League.
What can Chelsea achieve with a win?
A victory for Chelsea would guarantee they finish in the top 16, earning direct qualification for the round of 16 and avoiding the extra play-off round. Their final position could be as high as third, depending on other results.
Where can I watch the match?
The match will be broadcast live across Europe on various sports networks, including Sky Sport in several territories. Streaming is available via official UEFA and broadcaster platforms.