Monza host Napoli in the ninth round of Serie A, with both sides looking for a result to improve their position in the table.
Monza returned to Serie A with the immediate objective of staying clear of the relegation zone, and so far they have managed to do so. They have seven points and sit 15th, four points behind Napoli.
The hosts may take encouragement from playing at home, particularly given Napoli’s inconsistent form and the number of setbacks they have suffered this season. Monza will hope to build on their recent home performances when they face Max Allegri’s side.
Monza were beaten 3-2 away by Torino in their last Serie A match. Before that, they recorded a convincing 4-0 victory over Cagliari.
Napoli have also fallen well short of their expected position under Allegri. They are 10th in Serie A and sit 11 points behind the leaders, leaving them in need of points to begin repairing their league campaign.
A well-prepared Napoli side could still be expected to challenge for victory away from home against Monza. The visitors drew 3-3 with Roma in their previous league match, while their most recent win came in the Champions League, where they defeated Bodø/Glimt 4-3.
The clubs’ recent meetings also favour Napoli. Monza have lost three of their past five matches against them, recording one victory during that run.
Napoli’s away form remains a concern, however. They have failed to win any of their past four matches on the road in all competitions. Monza, meanwhile, have lost five of their last 10 games across all tournaments.
Pinnacle888’s odds make Napoli clear favourites for the match. A Monza victory is priced at 4.4, while the odds for a draw are 4. Napoli are available at 1.75 to win.
The suggested selections are a Napoli victory at 1.75 and “both teams to score – no” at 1.68.