Napoli and Union Berlin share spoils with draw in UEFA Champions League battle in Naples

Napoli settled for a 1-1 draw against Union Berlin in their UEFA Champions League group stage encounter on Wednesday night. This outcome leaves Group C finely poised as the final two rounds of fixtures approach.

The hosts claimed the lead in a stroke of luck during the first half. Mario Rui’s cross took a substantial deflection off Josip Juranovic, ultimately rebounding into the net off Matteo Politano’s face from close range. Nevertheless, Union Berlin leveled the score early in the second half through substitute David Fofana on a swift counter-attack, exploiting Napoli’s forward push.

The match remained an open and entertaining affair, featuring opportunities at both ends. Although Napoli believed they had surged ahead earlier when Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa netted a header, it was disallowed due to a pushing infringement. In the first-half stoppage time, Juranovic’s free-kick for the visitors struck the post.

During the second half, both teams had chances to secure victory. Napoli’s Alex Meret made crucial saves, while Stanislav Lobotka had to leave the field injured following a late tackle. Late attempts by Brenden Aaronson and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia were thwarted for each side.

In the end, the honors were shared. Napoli currently sits in second place in Group C with seven points, trailing Real Madrid, who are leading against Braga in their concurrent match. Braga occupies the third spot in the group, with Union Berlin at the bottom with only one point from four matches. Victor Osimhen’s team remains optimistic about advancing but will need to enhance their clinical finishing in front of goal.