7M - Napoli and Roma Draw in Tense Derby del Sole

The Stadio Diego Armando Maradona buzzed with excitement on February 15, 2026, as Napoli faced Roma in the highly anticipated Derby del Sole, with crucial Champions League qualification points on the line. Just three points separated third-placed Napoli from fifth-placed Roma, heightening the stakes considerably.

Both teams dealt with injury crises. Napoli, managed by Antonio Conte, was without key players such as Scott McTominay, Kevin De Bruyne, and captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo. Veteran defender Juan Jesus was also suspended, prompting Conte to bring in Sam Beukema to strengthen the defense.

"We have to adapt and show resilience," Conte stated, echoing the team's determination. Eljif Elmas joined Stanislav Lobotka in midfield, while Matteo Politano returned to the starting lineup after injury, hoping to support strikers Antonio Vergara and Rasmus Hojlund.

Roma, led by Gian Piero Gasperini, faced similar challenges. Paulo Dybala's knee injury ruled him out, adding to a lengthy absentee list that included Manu Kone and Artem Dovbyk. January signing Bryan Zaragoza made his first start, partnering with Lorenzo Pellegrini and Donyell Malen, who had impressed in recent matches.

The tactical matchup showcased Conte's direct style against Gasperini's disciplined pressing. Napoli looked to control the game through their midfield, while Roma aimed to exploit gaps in the defense with Malen and Zaragoza's pace.

As the match began, both teams played cautiously. Napoli pushed forward but struggled to find space against Roma's compact defense. The game featured few clear chances, with set pieces yielding Napoli's best opportunities but failing to break through.

With attacking talents absent for both sides, the attacking flair fans anticipated was limited. Yet, the intensity remained high, with every play met with cheers from the crowd aware of the match's significance.

In the closing stages, both teams remained cautious. Napoli sought to protect their unbeaten home record, while Roma needed at least a point for their own top-four ambitions. Late substitutions aimed to add energy, but neither side could find the breakthrough.

Ultimately, the Derby del Sole ended in a stalemate, reflecting the determination of both teams amid adversity. Napoli retained their third-place standing, extending their impressive home unbeaten streak, while Roma stayed in contention for Champions League qualification.

As the Serie A season approaches its climax, both teams will aim to regroup and recover key players for the continuing fight for European football. The battle for the top four remains intense, and if this match is any indication, the drama in Italy's top flight is far from over.