Jeddah, 23 December (H.S.):

Reigning Serie A champions Napoli claimed the Italian Super Cup title on Monday after defeating Bologna 2-0 in the final match played at Al-Awwal Park in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This victory marks Napoli's third Super Cup triumph, following previous wins in 1990 and 2014.

Brazilian winger David Neres delivered a match-winning performance, scoring both goals. In the first half, he curled in a stunning long-range shot to give Napoli the lead. Then, in the second half, Neres intercepted a weak pass from Bologna goalkeeper Federico Ravaglia to seal the victory with his second goal.

Neres finished the tournament with three goals, having also scored once in the 2-0 semifinal win against AC Milan.Post-match, Napoli coach Antonio Conte praised his players, stating, “Congratulations to the team. They showed how much they wanted this trophy for the fans. Now we have another big reason to celebrate.”

Traditionally contested between the Serie A and Coppa Italia winners, the Italian Super Cup has evolved since 2023 into a four-team tournament that also includes the league and cup runners-up. The event will continue to be hosted in Saudi Arabia through 2029.

A leaders Inter Milan by two points and will face Cremonese in their next league fixture on Sunday. Bologna, meanwhile, hosts Sassuolo at home.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar