Napoli claimed their first Champions League victory of the season with a 2-1 win over Sporting on Tuesday night, thanks to a brace from Rasmus Hojlund.
The Danish striker twice combined with Kevin De Bruyne to secure three crucial points for Antonio Conte’s side.
Hojlund strikes after De Bruyne assist
Sporting started brightly, dominating early possession and restricting Napoli’s movement in the opening exchanges.
But the home side gradually grew into the contest, and midway through the first half De Bruyne split the defence with a perfectly weighted through ball for Hojlund, who calmly slotted past Rui Silva to make it 1-0.
The goal lifted Napoli, who created further chances before the break, while Sporting were fortunate not to concede a second before half-time.
Sporting fight back before late blow
The Portuguese visitors were handed a lifeline early in the second half when Matteo Politano was penalised for a foul inside the box.
Conte responded with changes, introducing Noa Lang and David Neres to inject fresh energy into the attack.
With ten minutes left, De Bruyne delivered again, this time from a corner, as Hojlund rose highest to head home his second of the night.
Despite Sporting’s late pressure, Napoli held their grounds to secure the win.
