"The Serie A side dominated the opening exchanges but created little in the way of chances, despite some neat interplay between the likes of Leonardo Spinazzola and Matteo Politano. However, Napoli would take the lead nine minutes before half-time as Kevin De Bruyne slid a pass through for Hojlund, with the ex-Manchester United striker making no mistake from the edge of the box."
"Despite Napoli securing the victory and amassing more shots, it was Sporting who generated the most xG with 1.29 compared to the Italian side's 0.80. Hojlund's finishing was the difference then. Despite United's struggles in Europe in the 2023-24 season, the striker impressed in the group stage when last in this competition, twice netting a brace. He therefore has three doubles in his first eight Champions League appearances, a joint-record."
Napoli controlled early possession but created few clear chances despite effective interplay from Spinazzola and Politano. Kevin De Bruyne provided the assist for Rasmus Hojlund to open the scoring nine minutes before half-time. Politano had an effort saved and later conceded a penalty, which Luis Suarez converted to level. De Bruyne then headed on a cross that Hojlund met with a decisive header to secure the win. Napoli generated more shots, but Sporting produced higher xG (1.29 to 0.80). Hojlund now has three Champions League braces in his first eight appearances, a joint-record.
Read at Soccer News
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