Højlund and McTominay struggle up front, Elmas and Gutiérrez shine, and Napoli’s qualification hopes hang in the balance after another scoreless draw.
Napoli’s Champions League campaign took another hit as Antonio Conte’s side were held to a 0–0 draw by Eintracht Frankfurt at the Stadio Maradona — their second consecutive goalless result after the stalemate with Como in Serie A.
The Azzurri dominated possession and tempo but once again lacked the cutting edge to turn pressure into goals. Højlund looked short of form and confidence, while McTominay failed to make an impact in his advanced role. Elmas and Gutiérrez were the few bright sparks, driving play from midfield and creating chances that went begging.
Napoli created several clear opportunities, including a glaring miss from Anguissa midway through the second half. Frankfurt, meanwhile, defended with discipline and organization, occasionally threatening on the counter through Bahoya and Burkardt. In goal, Zetterer provided the visitors with calm assurance, while Theate and Brown stood out in a resilient back line.
In stoppage time, Elmas and Højlund both came close to snatching victory, but luck wasn’t on Napoli’s side. With four points from their first three group games, Conte’s men now face a must-win clash with Qarabag to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Match Report
UEFA Champions League – Group Stage
Venue: Stadio Diego Armando Maradona (Naples)
Score: Napoli 0–0 Eintracht Frankfurt
Napoli (4-3-3): Milinkovic-Savic; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Buongiorno, Gutiérrez; Anguissa, Lobotka (73′ Lang), McTominay; Politano (65′ Neres), Højlund, Elmas.
Coach: Conte
Eintracht Frankfurt (3-4-2-1): Zetterer; Collins, Koch, Theate; Kristensen, Chaibi (94′ Dahoud), Larsson (79′ Skhiri), Brown (94′ Amenda); Götze, Bahoya (65′ Knauff); Burkardt.
Coach: Toppmöller
Referee: Pinheiro (Portugal)
Bookings: Rrahmani (Napoli), Gutierrez (Napoli), Zetterer (Eintracht), Conte (Napoli coach)
Notes: None
