Napoli defeated Qarabag 2-0 in the Champions League group game at the Diego Maradona Stadium last night.
The Partenopei had an opportunity to break the deadlock after being awarded a penalty, but Mateusz Kochalski denied Rasmus Hojlund.
Much to the Danish striker’s relief, Scott McTominay put the home side ahead in the 65th minute.
The Scottish midfielder quickly forced an own goal from Marko Jankovic to seal a crucial win for the Serie A champions.
With the pressure mounting on Antonio Conte’s side after a slow start to the competition, they have steadied the ship with last night’s victory.
McTominay once again proved to be the difference maker with a brilliant all-around performance.
Shouldering the responsibility in the absence of Kevin De Bruyne and Frank Anguissa, McTominay showed once again that he is the most influential player for the Italian giants.
He completed 55 passes with a pass accuracy of 87 percent, including nine final-third passes. The former Manchester United man also created three big chances and made six recoveries.
The Scottish star now has five goals and two assists to his name in all competitions this season.
David Neres was as pivotal as McTominay in the victory over the Azerbaijan outfit.
The Brazilian winger nearly scored two jaw-dropping goals, but was denied by Kochalski and the woodwork.
He was a constant threat down the flank during the counterattacks and had 11 touches in the opposition box.
The 28-year-old completed two dribbles and created three big chances, playing a key role in Napoli’s second goal.
Napoli are 18th in the Champions League table after recording two wins, a draw and two defeats in five games.
They need to win the remaining fixtures against Benfica, Copenhagen and Chelsea to progress to the knockout phase.
