Cremonese vs Napoli: H2H, lineups and match prediction — December 28, 2025
On Sunday, December 28, in the 17th round of Italy's Serie A, Cremonese will host Napoli on their home turf. Read on for an in-depth look at both teams and our forecast for the upcoming clash in this match preview.
See also: AC Milan vs Verona prediction and betting tips 28 December 2025
Match preview
Cremonese approach their home fixture against Napoli in a challenging position, which has largely defined their 2025/26 campaign. The team has spent much of the season battling for a spot in the middle of the table, regularly dropping points against top-tier opponents. In recent rounds, Cremonese have shown character and tried to play with more discipline, yet defensive issues persist. Positional errors, especially when opponents transition quickly from defense to attack, remain a systemic problem leading to conceded goals. After 16 rounds, the team has collected 21 points, placing them 12th in the standings.
Going forward, Cremonese favor a direct approach. Their game plan relies on vertical play, rapid deliveries into the box, and active use of the flanks. Against stronger sides, they typically concede possession and look to strike on the counter or capitalize on set pieces. This strategy allows them to put up a fight, but rarely yields consistent results over the long haul.
Napoli, by the end of December, continue to enjoy a confident season and remain contenders for the top spots. The team consistently picks up points, showcasing balanced football and high attacking quality. In Serie A fixtures, Napoli frequently create numerous chances, dictating the tempo through possession and relentless pressure on opposing defenses. Even in matches where results don't come easily, the Neapolitans maintain their structure and methodically wear down the opposition's backline. This approach has proven effective: Napoli have picked up 31 points from 15 league matches and sit third in the table, just two points adrift of leaders Inter.
Napoli's style in the 2025/26 season is built around dominance: full-backs play a key role, there's constant movement between the lines, and the team presses high immediately after losing possession. While vulnerabilities exist—especially when opponents escape their press quickly—the overall organization allows them to compensate. Against teams that sit deep, Napoli are patient and rarely take unnecessary risks.
Probable lineups
Cremonese: Audero; Terracciano, Baschirotto, Bianchetti; Barbieri, Payero, Bondo, Vandeputte, Pezzella; Bonazzoli, Vardy
Napoli: Milinkovic-Savic; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Buongiorno; Politano, Lobotka, McTominay, Spinazzola; Neres, Lang; Hojlund
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the last four meetings between these clubs, Napoli recorded two wins, there was one draw, and Cremonese won once on penalties
- Cremonese have won two of their last five matches, losing twice
- Napoli have won seven of their last ten games, suffering three defeats
Prediction
Cremonese play with confidence and passion at home, giving their all for the fans. They are dangerous up front and ready to prove it against the reigning champions. My prediction: both teams to score – YES at 2.15
