Højlund Runs Riot as Napoli Make Super Cup Statement
Højlund Leads Napoli Back in Serie A Style
Rasmus Højlund continued his blistering form as Napoli followed up their Italian Super Cup triumph with a controlled 2-0 win away at Cremonese. The on-loan Manchester United striker struck twice in the first half to ensure Walter Mazzarri’s side stayed in touch with Serie A leaders AC Milan and reasserted their domestic credentials.
Fresh from lifting silverware in Riyadh, Napoli showed focus and authority, with Højlund once again the difference-maker.
Early Pressure Pays Off
Napoli started on the front foot and were rewarded inside 13 minutes. Leonardo Spinazzola’s initial effort was blocked, but Højlund reacted fastest to smash home the rebound and give the visitors a deserved lead.
The Danish forward was a constant menace, pressing aggressively and stretching Cremonese’s back line with clever movement. He nearly doubled his tally midway through the half, only to be denied by Emil Audero in a one-on-one situation.
Hat-Trick Threat, Job DoneDouble Blow Before the Break
Cremonese struggled to find Jamie Vardy on the counter and offered little threat, while Napoli’s control grew stronger as the half wore on. Just before the interval, the visitors struck again.
Matteo Politano’s cross deflected kindly into Højlund’s path, and the 22-year-old made no mistake, firing home to claim his ninth goal of the season and leave the hosts reeling at the break.
Højlund continued to torment Cremonese after the restart, lashing into the side-netting and forcing further saves from Audero as Napoli searched for a third goal to kill the contest.
Scott McTominay, Stanislav Lobotka and Politano all went close, but the visitors were content to manage the game professionally as the chances kept coming.
Cremonese survived a heavier defeat, but there was no doubt about the outcome. Napoli were composed, dominant and dangerous — with Højlund once again stealing the spotlight.
