Serie A Line-ups Venezia vs Napoli: Nicola Debut Ends in Shock Win as Injuries Bite

FolioPitch.com – 17 October 2026 | In a dramatic Serie A encounter at the Stadio Pierluigi Penzo, Venezia secured their first victory of the season with a 1-0 win over an injury-plagued Napoli. The Serie A line-ups Venezia vs Napoli revealed significant squad challenges for both sides, but it was the home team who capitalised on their opportunities. This match marked the debut of new Venezia coach Davide Nicola, who replaced Giovanni Stroppa after a dismal start to the campaign.

Napoli, reeling from a 3-1 Champions League defeat to Villarreal and a growing injury list, were forced to field a makeshift lineup. The Serie A line-ups Venezia vs Napoli showed that Antonio Vergara, Costantino Favasuli, Alessandro Buongiorno, and David Neres were all unavailable, while Alisson Santos, Mathias Olivera, and Frank Zambo Anguissa were only fit for the bench. Coach Massimiliano Allegri opted to rest key players like Rasmus Hojlund and Kevin De Bruyne, handing starts to Lorenzo Lucca and Giovane, with Scott McTominay pushed into a more advanced role.

Venezia also faced absentee issues, with Armel Bella-Kotchap, Marin Sverko, Bartol Franjic, Thierry Correia, and Andrea Adorante missing, and former Napoli man Pasquale Mazzocchi not fully fit. The Serie A line-ups Venezia vs Napoli highlighted these absences, but Nicola’s side showed resilience. Juan Jesus, facing his former club, started in defence alongside Redouane Halhal and Matias Moreno.

The match’s only goal came in the 49th minute when Akor Adams, assisted by Simon Sohm, found the net. Despite Napoli dominating possession with 71% and registering 29 shots, they could only manage 10 on target, thanks to a stellar performance from Venezia’s goalkeeper Filip Stankovic. Venezia, meanwhile, made the most of their chances, with 9 shots and 4 on target. The Serie A line-ups Venezia vs Napoli demonstrated the tactical battle, as Napoli’s heavy artillery failed to break down a resolute Venezia defence.

Nicola’s debut was a triumphant one, lifting Venezia off the bottom of the table. The coach, known for his motivational skills, praised his team’s grit. “We showed character and organization,” he said. “This is just the beginning.” Napoli’s Allegri lamented the injury crisis but refused to make excuses. “We had chances but lacked sharpness,” he admitted. The Serie A line-ups Venezia vs Napoli will be remembered as a turning point for Venezia and a stumbling block for Napoli’s title ambitions.

In conclusion, Venezia’s shock victory over Napoli underscores the unpredictability of Serie A. With key players sidelined, both teams had to dig deep, but it was the newcomers under Nicola who emerged victorious. Napoli must regroup quickly, while Venezia will hope this win sparks a revival. The Serie A line-ups Venezia vs Napoli will be scrutinized for weeks to come.