Benfica vs Napoli Predictions

• Benfica have failed to win their last three home games
• Napoli have won four of their last five games, including two of their last three on the road
• Ex-Benfica star David Neres has scored three goals in his last five appearances for Napoli

Partenopei are on a roll

Napoli have the edge in terms of form and their coach Antonio Conte has a better record against his rival Jose Mourinho ahead Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Benfica at Estadio da Luz.

The Italian champions have not always fired on all cylinders this season, but a recent run of results should give their backers plenty of confidence going into this clash. The Partenopei have won four of their last five games to move one point clear at the top of Serie A.

Sunday’s 2-1 home win over Juventus was an important one as it keeps their momentum going into a crucial run of games through Christmas and into the New Year, including clashes with both Milan clubs. It was a deserved win with Napoli grateful for Rasmus Hojlund’s twin strike.

Brazilian back to haunt Benfica 

Meanwhile, Benfica lost further ground in the Portuguese title race after being held to a 1-1 home draw by city rivals Sporting Club. The visitors took the lead when Morten Hjulmand’s press turned the ball over on the edge of Benfica’s box but Heorhiy Sudakov stole in at the back post for the leveller and the sides could not be separated again before the final whistle.

Mourinho is always a couple of players away from getting his perfect side and cannot find a consistent formula for the Eagles right now, as only three wins in their last six games would indicate. Benfica lost 1-0 at home to Bayer Leverkusen on Matchday Five and the German club are probably playing inferior stuff to Napoli right now.

Back the visitors to pick up all three points in this one based on their more energetic style and superior tactical nous. Brazilian attacker Davis Neres looks primed to haunt his former club as he returns to Lisbon with three goals in his last five games.