THINGS are fairly straightforward for Napoli on Tuesday night; avoid defeat and they'll qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League.
That task is made considerably easier by the fact that they're at home and their opponents are the weakest team in the group, Genk.
The Italians are unbeaten in Group F (W2 D3). An opening day win over Liverpool set them up nicely for group qualification and should they finish on the same points as Liverpool (potentially 11 each) they'll top the group with the better head-to-head record.
Not that that will be at the forefront of their thoughts at the San Paolo Stadium when they line-up against the current 8th best team in Belgium who won their first game in nine at the weekend.
The Belgians frustrated Napoli on Matchday 2 to earn their only point of the campaign, as result of which means they have nothing to play for on Tuesday except pride, co-efficient points and some cash from UEFA.
It's been a hugely disappointing season so far for the Belgian champions. They've won just three of their last 15 fixtures (D5 L7) and have already disposed of coach Felice Mazzù, replaced by Hannes Wolf who's impact hasn't resulted in any serious upturn of fortunes (W1 D2 L2).
Genk have conceded 20 goals in their last six European fixtures and have lost their last four Champions League away matches, conceding 20 in the process. Not surprising then that Napoli are one of the shortest priced teams in action this week at 1/6.
For their part, Napoli haven't been pulling up any trees either though. They've not won in nine and have a serious case of draw-itis, finishing level in seven of those last nine.
They should be too good for Genk though, but since they don't even NEED to win (remember a draw will do) then we won't be entertaining a short-priced win.
Napoli have conceded in all but one of their last ten matches and I was surprised to research that Genk have scored at least once in 33 of their last 35 European matches, including two in Salzburg and once at Anfield, so despite the fact that the bookies think this will be a one-sided affair, I'm backing Genk to get on the scoresheet alongside their hosts at handy even money with Betfred.
This UEFA Champions League match between Napoli and Genk will be played on Dec 10, 2019 and kick off at . Check below for our tipsters best Napoli vs Genk prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
