Bologna vs Napoli preview - Dossena backs Napoli to cope without Cavani

Italian midfielder Andrea Dossena believes the absence of star striker Edinson Cavani will not hinder Napoli as they look to continue their Serie A title tilt at Bologna on Sunday.

Last weekend's 4-3 win over Lazio moved second-placed Napoli to within three points of Serie A leaders AC Milan and raised hopes of a first Scudetto crown since the 1989-1990 season.

Cavani, who has been an inspiration for Napoli so far, will miss the encounter at the Renato Dall' Ara stadium through suspension.

The Uruguay international has scored 25 goals in 31 Serie A appearances, including a hat-trick over Lazio.

"Cavani is a very important player for us," Dossena said. "But we have an extraordinary group, that never gives up.

"I think our secret is the hunger for victories.

"Everyone wants to achieve something important for our respective careers as well as for Napoli.

"We are aware we are achieving something unique with respect to the club's results in the past 20 years.

"The game at Bologna will be difficult but then again we know that we face seven battles.

"We are in the race for the league title and we want to keep going."

Walter Mazzarri's side has won six of their last eight league games.

Giuseppe Mascara is set to replace Cavani and play alongside Marek Hamsik and Ezequiel Lavezzi up front.

Rivals Bologna have all but assured Serie A football next season with 40 points in the bank.

The Rossoblu lost 3-1 at Brescia in the last round to see their four-match unbeaten run come to an end.

Bologna coach Alberto Malesani is nevertheless confident his side will make life difficult for Napoli.

"Napoli are a great team but we want to give our fans some satisfaction," Malesani said.

"We cannot forget we have already guaranteed ourselves Serie A football next season and we will play without pressure."