Napoli chase Diego Maradona tribute with big-game statement vs Qarabag

Conte said on Monday: "I know that tomorrow is the anniversary of Maradona's passing, we all know what he meant and still means to Napoli. It would be nice if we could dedicate a victory to him, something important."

Beyond the emotion, Conte praised Qarabag as a serious threat. "Qarabag are the revelation team of this Champions League," he said. "They have seven points, even on difficult pitches. 

"They play at a high tempo, they have quality players, and they'll have to put in a great performance, from every point of view."

Stakes High at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium

Napoli host Qarabag in matchday 5 of the UEFA Champions League group stage, both teams still chasing a route into the knockout rounds. This is Napoli's first-ever meeting with a team from Azerbaijan.

Napoli's Uneasy European Form

While Napoli may feel at home in Naples, the European campaign has been rocky. They have picked up just one win so far in the group phase (with one draw and two defeats).

Conte's side have managed only one win in their last six matches in the Champions League proper.

That said, their home record in Europe is formidable: they have lost just once in their last 19 Champions League matches at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona (11 wins, 7 draws).

Qarabag's Breakthrough Run

Qarabag, meanwhile, are enjoying a dream run in Europe. They began their group stage with a remarkable 3-2 comeback win at Benfica, followed by a 2-0 home victory over Copenhagen.

This season, they have lost only two of their ten European games (seven wins, one draw) and have found the net in every one.

Their confidence is high, and they appear fearlessly capable of producing moments of quality.

History and Key Men

Head-to-Head: Napoli have never previously faced a side from Azerbaijan, while Qarabag have failed to beat an Italian team in six previous attempts (one draw, five losses).

Standout Players: For Napoli, David Neres arrives on form after a brace at the weekend.

For Qarabağ, Leandro Andrade has already scored in five of their seven European matches this season.

Injury Watch: Napoli will be without Frank Anguissa, who missed their recent Serie A game. There are also concerns after Amir Rrahmani and Rasmus Højlund left the team's latest game limping.

The visitors, by contrast, arrive with a largely fit squad.

Conte and his side know tonight is more than just a match, it's a chance for a heartfelt tribute, a statement in Europe, and a meaningful moment for the club and their fans.