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The UEFA Champions League returns to the fold with first round of matches this week as Napoli lock horns with Pep Guardiola's Manchester City side at the Etihad Stadium on Thursday. Both teams have world-class players in their ranks and will want to get off to a winning start.
Manchester City vs Napoli Preview
Napoli are at the top of the Serie A standings and have been in excellent form this season. The Neapolitan outfit eased past Fiorentina by a 3-1 scoreline over the weekend and will be confident of toppling City as well.
Manchester City, on the other hand, are in eighth place in the Premier League table and are yet to hit their stride this season. The Cityzens eased past Manchester United by a comfortable 3-0 scoreline in their previous game, the Manchester Derby at the Etihad, and will look to carry on the momentum.
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Manchester City vs Napoli Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- Manchester City have a slight edge over Napoli and have won two out of the four matches played between the two teams, as opposed to Napoli's one victory.
- All four of the matches between Napoli and Manchester City have taken place in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, with the previous such games taking place in the 2017-18 season and ending in victories for Manchester City.
- Napoli have never won an away game in their 12 matches against teams from England in the UEFA Champions League and have suffered at least one defeat against each of the six different Premier League opponents they have faced in the competition.
- Antonio Conte has the upper hand over Pep Guardiola in the UEFA Champions League and has won four of the seven matches played between the two managers in the competition.
Manchester City vs Napoli Prediction
Manchester City have a strong squad at their disposal and made a strong statement of intent against Manchester United last week. Erling Haaland was lethal on that day, scorong a brace, and will look to add to his goal tally on Thursday.
Napoli punched above their weight last season and can pull off an upset on their day. Manchester City hold a slight upper hand, however, and should be able to win this game.
Prediction: Manchester City 2-1 Napoli
Manchester City vs Napoli Betting Tips
Tip 1: Result - Manchester City to win
Tip 2: Game to have over 2.5 goals - Yes
Tip 3: Manchester City to score first - Yes
