De Bruyne Shines in Napoli’s Title Defense Opener Against Sassuolo

 Kevin De Bruyne marked his Napoli debut with a stunning goal, propelling the Serie A champions to a confident start in their quest to retain the Scudetto.

Napoli launched their Serie A title defense with a commanding victory over promoted Sassuolo at the Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia, led by debutant Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian star, a marquee summer signing, scored a decisive free-kick in the second half, curling the ball past defenders to secure Napoli’s lead. Scott McTominay opened the scoring earlier with a powerful header, setting the tone for Antonio Conte’s side in a match that showcased their attacking prowess.

Despite missing Romelu Lukaku due to injury, Napoli dominated a Sassuolo side that struggled to adapt to top-flight demands, ending the game with ten men after Ismael Kone’s red card. McTominay, a standout from Napoli’s 2023 title triumph, nearly added another goal, striking the crossbar before halftime. Conte’s decision to stay, unlike his predecessor, has fueled optimism among fans, who see a chance to achieve what Diego Maradona’s era could not, retaining the league title.

The victory has sparked hope for a historic season, with some praising Conte’s tactical clarity, while others note Sassuolo’s inexperience as a factor. Nigeria’s football fans, attuned to global leagues, view Napoli’s start as a benchmark for elite competition. The win, a statement of intent, tests Napoli’s ability to sustain momentum without key players. As De Bruyne settles into his new role, Napoli’s strong opening signals their ambition to defy history in the 2025/26 campaign.