Napoli Secures 2-0 Win Against Qarabag With McTominay's Key Contributions

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Napoli secured a crucial Champions League win by defeating Qarabag 2-0. This victory was significant for Antonio Conte, who aimed to honour Diego Maradona on the fifth anniversary of his passing. Scott McTominay played a pivotal role, scoring the first goal and contributing to an own goal in Naples.

The first half saw limited action, with both teams generating just 0.7 expected goals (xG) combined. Napoli had the best opportunity when David Neres connected with a cross from Noa Lang, but Mateusz Kochalski made an impressive diving save to deny him.

Napoli had a chance to take the lead when Giovanni Di Lorenzo was fouled in the box by Marko Jankovic. However, Rasmus Hojlund's penalty was saved by Kochalski. McTominay eventually broke the deadlock in the 65th minute, capitalising on a rebound after Qarabag's goalkeeper initially stopped a corner.

Following McTominay's goal, Napoli created several opportunities. Kochalski made double saves against Lang and McTominay, while Hojlund missed a header and Neres hit the crossbar. The second goal came seven minutes later when McTominay's effort was deflected in by Jankovic.

Napoli recorded an xG total of 3.44, their highest in a Champions League match since September 2022 against Rangers (3.53). Qarabag managed only 0.49 xG from three shots on target. McTominay has scored three goals in this season's Champions League for Napoli, matching the record for a Scottish player in one campaign alongside John McGinn (2024-25) and Kenny Miller (2006-07).

McTominay led Napoli with five shots, 80 touches, six possessions won, and two interceptions. His performance was instrumental for Conte's side once again.

This victory not only marked an important milestone for Napoli but also highlighted McTominay's crucial role in their Champions League campaign this season.