November 08, (THEWILL) – Napoli were held to a 1-1 draw by Union Berlin in their UEFA Champions League group stage match on Wednesday night. The result leaves Group C intricately settled heading into the final two rounds of fixtures.
The home side took the lead in fortunate fashion midway through the first half. Mario Rui’s cross took a big deflection off Josip Juranovic and bounced into the net off Matteo Politano’s face from close range. However, Union Berlin equalised early in the second half through substitute David Fofana on the counter-attack after Napoli had poured forward.
It was an open and entertaining contest throughout, with chances at both ends. Napoli thought they had taken the lead earlier when Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa headed in, but it was disallowed for a push. In first-half stoppage time, Juranovic struck the post with a free kick for the visitors.
In the second period, both teams had opportunities to win it. Alex Meret made some good saves for Napoli, while Stanislav Lobotka had to go off injured after a late tackle. Brenden Aaronson and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia were both denied late on for either side.
Ultimately, honours ended even. Napoli are second in Group C on seven points behind Real Madrid, who are currently leading Braga in their own match. Behind Braga in the group is bottom side Union Berlin with only a single point after four matches. Victor Osimhen’s side will fancy their chances of making it through even if they will have to be more clinical in front of goal.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
