Sassuolo vs Napoli Prediction & Betting Tips (23 August)

Sassuolo’s return to Serie A begins with a daunting challenge as they host reigning champions Napoli at the Mapei Stadium on August 23. Under the guidance of Fabio Grosso, the Neroverdi have rebuilt swiftly after their brief stint in Serie B, finishing top of the second tier last season. Key figures like Domenico Berardi and Armand Laurienté stayed loyal through the drop and now form the backbone of a side eager to prove its top-flight credentials. Sassuolo’s pre-season was a mixed bag, but their Coppa Italia win over Catanzaro showed flashes of promise, with new arrivals like Ismael Kone and Sebastian Walukiewicz slotting in well. However, they’ll be without Ruan Tressoldi due to a knee injury, which could leave their backline vulnerable against Napoli’s firepower.

Napoli, fresh off a dramatic title win under Antonio Conte, arrive with momentum and a retooled squad. The Partenopei have added marquee names like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, while Vanja Milinkovic-Savic is expected to take over goalkeeping duties. Conte has shifted to a 4-3-3 system, with Scott McTominay and Stanislav Lobotka anchoring the midfield and Noa Lang providing width. Their pre-season form has been solid, including a 2-1 win over Olympiacos, and they’ll be eager to kick off their title defense with authority. Despite losing Victor Osimhen and Giacomo Raspadori in the transfer window, Napoli’s depth and tactical discipline remain formidable.

Historically, Napoli have dominated this fixture, winning 14 of the last 23 meetings and scoring 20 goals in their last five encounters against Sassuolo. Yet, the hosts have shown resilience at home, and their attacking trio of Berardi, Laurienté, and Andrea Pinamonti could exploit Napoli’s high defensive line. Sassuolo’s unpredictability and hunger to make a statement on their Serie A return could tilt the balance, especially if they manage to disrupt Napoli’s rhythm early. With the Mapei crowd behind them and a coach who knows how to galvanize underdogs, Sassuolo may just have the ingredients for a surprise.

While Napoli are favorites on paper, this clash has the makings of a tightly contested opener. Sassuolo’s recent form and Napoli’s slight defensive reshuffle suggest vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Expect Sassuolo to strike first, possibly through Berardi, before Napoli responds with their trademark fluidity and precision. A late winner from Laurienté or Pinamonti could seal a memorable 2-1 victory for the hosts—an upset that would send ripples through the league and mark Sassuolo’s return with a roar.