Napoli vs Roma: prediction, head-to-head, and probable line-ups – 15 February 2026
One of the key fixtures of Serie A matchday 25 is set for Sunday at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in Naples, where Napoli host Roma in a heated Southern Derby. Let’s take a look at a cautious bet on the outcome, considering the tight standings and the emotional backdrop following both teams’ recent results.
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Match preview
Napoli approach the derby reeling from a painful blow – an Italian Cup exit at the hands of Como (1-1, lost on penalties). Earlier, Antonio Conte’s side bowed out of the Champions League, so now all their focus is on Serie A, where the Neapolitans are hanging on to a Champions League spot but feel the pressure from both Juventus and Roma.
The squad situation is gradually stabilizing: Milinković-Savić is back between the posts, Politano has recovered, and McTominay – one of the key midfielders – is close to returning. Up front, competition is heating up: Højlund retains his starting spot, while Lukaku is getting more minutes, adding variety to the final third.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s Roma endured a minor slump – a draw against Milan (1-1) and a loss to Udinese (0-1) raised questions about their consistency. However, in the last round, the Giallorossi comfortably dispatched Cagliari (2-0), showing structured football and tempo control at the Stadio Olimpico.
The main positive for the visitors is the return of Paulo Dybala after missing three matches. With Dovbyk and Ferguson out injured, Donnyell Malen – on loan from Aston Villa – has stepped up: three goals in a short span have made him Roma’s main attacking weapon.
Probable line-ups
- Napoli: Milinković-Savić, Buongiorno, Rrahmani, Beukema, Spinazzola, McTominay, Lobotka, Gutiérrez, Vergara, Politano, Højlund.
- Roma: Svilar, Mancini, N’Dicka, Gilardi, Celik, Cristante, Pisilli, Wesley, Sule, Dybala, Malen.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Napoli are unbeaten against Roma at home in the league for seven straight matches – four wins and three draws.
- Since Antonio Conte’s arrival, Napoli have not lost to Roma – two wins and one draw.
- Seven of the last ten encounters in Naples have seen both teams score.
Prediction
Napoli will play with passion after their cup disappointment, but a packed schedule and lingering squad issues limit the hosts’ options. Roma are improving structurally, but in this season’s top clashes they’ve often lacked composure in the final third. The most logical scenario is a hard-fought match with a slight edge for the home side.
