When Fabio Capello, former Italy and Real Madrid coach shared his take on the 2024‑25 Serie A climax, the football world leaned in.
The battle now pits SSC Napoli against FC Internazionale Milano, separated by a solitary point with two matches left.
Current Standings and the Specter of a Play‑off
After 36 rounds, Napoli sit on 78 points, while Inter have 77. A draw for either side in the final two fixtures would trigger an unprecedented Scudetto play‑off, a scenario no one has seen since the league’s modern format took shape.
Serie A kicks off every late August; the season will close on 26 May 2025. That leaves Napoli traveling to Turin to face Juventus, while Inter host Fiorentina in a clash many pundits are already dubbing the "Viola trap".
Capello’s Tactical Breakdown of Napoli’s Draw
The former coach was especially vocal after Napoli’s 1‑1 stalemate with Udinese Calcio on 3 May. \"It felt like a missed chance to widen the gap,\" he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Capello singled out Napoli’s reduced energy on the wings. \"Usually, players like Matteo Politano and Lorenzo Neres win those duels, but Udinese closed the spaces brilliantly,\" he observed. The Italian tactician noted that the usual overlapping runs from Konstantinos Di Lorenzo and Giacomo Mazzocchi were neutralised, leaving striker Romelu Lukaku with limited service.
Even the midfield struggled to find rhythm. \"There were few chances for McTominay or Anguissa to penetrate the box. The goal came from a set‑piece – an incredible header by Scott McTominay – but open‑play creativity was scarce,\" Capello said, referring to the Scottish‑born midfielder who joined Napoli in June 2024.
He praised Udinese’s physical and technical display, insisting the fault lay less with Napoli than with an opponent that simply out‑worked them.
Why Inter Milan Remains the Front‑Runner
Capello didn’t hide his preference. \"Inter is the most consistent side this campaign. They haven’t lost a game, their defence is rock‑solid, and the depth of their bench is enviable,\" he asserted.
Inter’s defensive record – just three goals conceded in 36 matches – underscores that claim. Their ability to rotate without a dip in quality, thanks to players like Lautaro Martínez, Nicolo Barella and the newly‑signed midfielder Nicolò Barella, gives them a cushion that Napoli lacks.
Capello also highlighted the looming Fiorentina test. \"Inter must avoid the Viola trap. Fiorentina’s pressing is relentless, and a slip there could hand the title to Napoli,\" he warned.
Other Title‑Race Contenders and European Spots
While Napoli and Inter dominate headlines, AC Milan have emerged as surprise package. Capello praised their compactness, noting a 2‑0 win over Roma that demonstrated tactical cohesion.
Atalanta secured the fourth Champions League slot with a 2‑1 victory over Roma on 8 May, a result that also pushed Juventus back into the Europa League hunt.
The reigning champion, Juventus FC, will feel the loss of centre‑back Kim Min‑jae, who moved to FC Bayern Munich in July. Capello said the defensive void could cost them a top‑four finish.
Looking Ahead: What the Final Two Fixtures Could Mean
If Napoli win at Juventus and Inter slip at Fiorentina, the Scudetto could be decided in a one‑off play‑off at the San Siro – a scenario that would electrify the country.
Conversely, a win for both sides would hand Napoli the crown by a single point. Capello believes confidence is key. \"If I were in Antonio Conte’s dressing‑room, I’d tell the boys they’re still ahead, stay positive and keep the attitude right,\" he said.
For fans, the next week promises drama equal to a thriller novel – a fitting backdrop for a league that has already delivered twists, from Napoli’s early surge to Inter’s defensive masterclass.
Key Takeaways from Capello’s Analysis
- Napoli must rediscover wing energy and improve open‑play creativity.
- Inter’s consistency and squad depth keep them favorites, but Fiorentina remains a dangerous pitfall.
- AC Milan’s resurgence adds a third contender for Champions League places.
- The possible Scudetto play‑off would be historic for Serie A.
Frequently Asked Questions
How could the Serie A title be decided by a play‑off?
If Napoli and Inter finish the season level on points after the final two rounds, league rules mandate a single‑match play‑off at a neutral venue – a first in modern Italian football history.
What tactical issues did Capello highlight for Napoli?
He pointed to a loss of wing intensity, the inability of players like Politano and Neres to win duels, and a lack of open‑play chances for forwards, forcing them to rely on set‑pieces.
Why does Capello favor Inter over Napoli?
Inter’s unbeaten record, superior defensive stats (only three goals conceded), and a deep bench give them consistency that Napoli, despite their talent, have struggled to match.
Which teams have secured European football for next season?
Atalanta clinched a Champions League spot with a 2‑1 win over Roma, while Juventus, Napoli and Inter are still fighting for the remaining berths. AC Milan remain in contention for the last Champions League place.
What impact could Kim Min‑jae’s move to Bayern have on Juventus?
Losing their defensive lynchpin leaves Juventus vulnerable at the back, potentially affecting their ability to climb back into the top‑four race and forcing them to rely on younger, less‑experienced defenders.
Shreyas Badiye
October 6, 2025 AT 04:37Wow, reading Capello's take on the Napoli‑Inter duel feels like a breath of fresh air for us fans, especially when you consider how tight the table is right now :) It's crazy to think a single point separates the two giants, and the idea of a historic play‑off is electrifying. I love how Capello highlighted the wing fatigue; that really shows the tactical depth you often miss in highlight reels. Napoli's wings need that extra spark, or else Inter's rock‑solid defence will keep them at bay. The mention of McTominay’s header shows that set‑pieces can still swing the momentum, even if open‑play chances are scarce. It’s a reminder that every minute counts in these final games. I’m optimistic that Napoli can rediscover that energy against Juventus – they’ve got the spirit! And Inter? If they keep rotating smartly, they’ll stay unbeaten. Let’s hope the drama stays on the pitch and not off it – this season deserves the best of us! Keep the faith, lads, we’re in for a thriller. :)