Mansion Sports – An exciting encounter awaits in Matchday 9 of the 2025/2026 Serie A season, where Lecce will host Napoli at the Stadio Ettore Giardiniero – Via del Mare. The match is scheduled to kick off on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 18:30 local time.

This fixture presents an intriguing contrast between a struggling Lecce side determined to end their poor run and the league leaders Napoli, who are eager to maintain their impressive form and stay at the top of Serie A.

With both teams having very different objectives, the match promises to be a heated and high-intensity affair from the opening whistle.

Team Conditions Ahead of the Match

Lecce

Lecce are enduring a difficult spell and continue to search for ways to regain momentum following a series of disappointing results.

Their 2–3 defeat to Udinese last weekend extended their winless streak, despite Medon Berisha’s stunning goal that briefly reignited their hopes. 

Eusebio Di Francesco’s men ultimately failed to sustain the pressure and suffered yet another setback.

The loss further exposed Lecce’s main weakness this season — a fragile defense and an inability to maintain concentration until the final whistle.

After eight matches, they have only managed to collect six points and have yet to register a single home victory over Napoli in their last five encounters.

Despite these challenges, the Giallorossi remain motivated to turn things around. The passionate support of the Via del Mare crowd is expected to lift the spirits of young talents such as Francesco Camarda and Nikola Stulic, who will look to make their mark in this crucial fixture.

Head coach Eusebio Di Francesco emphasized that his side will play without fear despite facing a powerhouse like Napoli.

He believes that tactical discipline and strong determination will be key for Lecce to compete on equal footing.

Lecce will once again be without Filip Marchwinski and Gaby Jean due to injury, while Riccardo Sottil remains a doubt but could still feature on the bench.

In attack, Di Francesco faces a selection dilemma — whether to continue trusting 17-year-old Francesco Camarda, who scored his first Serie A goal last week, or to give another chance to Nikola Stulic, who is still struggling to find his rhythm in front of goal.

Napoli

Napoli head into the match full of confidence after reclaiming the top spot in Serie A with a 3–1 victory over Inter Milan.

Under Antonio Conte’s leadership, the Partenopei showcased a composed and efficient performance, reaffirming their champion mentality despite an inconsistent start to the season.

The win over Inter served as a major turning point for Napoli. Goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Scott McTominay, and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa highlighted the growing chemistry between their midfield and attacking units.

For Conte, that victory represented not only a symbolic triumph over his former club but also a crucial step toward restoring stability within his team.

However, Napoli now face new injury concerns. Kevin De Bruyne has been ruled out with a muscle injury, joining Romelu Lukaku, Rasmus Hojlund, Amir Rrahmani, Stanislav Lobotka, and Alex Meret on the sidelines.

This situation will require Conte to make tactical adjustments, particularly in the attacking department.

Goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic is expected to retain his position as the starting goalkeeper.

In the forward line, David Neres may be deployed as a false nine, though Lorenzo Lucca could also be given a starting role to provide a more physical presence up front.

A victory at Lecce’s home ground would not only extend Napoli’s positive run in Serie A but also help maintain their lead over AC Milan, who are closely trailing in second place.

Predicted Line-ups for Lecce vs Napoli 2025

Lecce (4-3-3)

Head coach Eusebio Di Francesco is expected to stick with his preferred 4-3-3 formation, focusing on balance between defense and quick counterattacks.

Napoli (4-1-4-1)

Antonio Conte is likely to maintain his tactical 4-1-4-1 system, emphasizing ball possession and swift transitions.

Match Outlook

The Lecce vs Napoli 2025 encounter at the Stadio Ettore Giardiniero – Via del Mare is expected to deliver an intriguing contest between two teams with contrasting ambitions.

Lecce are desperate to end their poor run and regain confidence, while Napoli aim to solidify their dominance at the top of the table.

If Lecce can maintain tactical discipline and capitalize on their chances, they could make life difficult for their visitors.

Meanwhile, Napoli’s current form and confidence make them a formidable opponent, determined to extend their winning streak and protect their position as Serie A leaders.

With both coaches fielding dynamic line-ups and emphasizing intensity, this clash promises to be a tactical and emotional battle filled with determination from both sides.