In a match that will be remembered as a potential turning point in the Serie A season, Napoli beat Inter 3-1 in a pulsating encounter at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. This victory was not just about three points; it was a statement of intent that catapults the Partenopei to the summit of the Italian league table.
The atmosphere was electric, with both sets of fans understanding the massive implications of this head-to-head clash. Before the match, Inter sat in a strong position, but Napoli, fueled by their home crowd, had a different script in mind.
⏹️ Full time: #NapoliInter 3-1
— Official SSC Napoli (@sscnapoli) October 25, 2025
💙 #ForzaNapoliSempre pic.twitter.com/ZpQ8LWMUu6
A First Half Defined by Pressure and Precision
From the opening whistle, the game was a tactical chessboard. Napoli, showcasing a fluid and aggressive midfield, immediately sought to control the tempo. Their efforts were rewarded just after the half-hour mark.
Following a period of sustained pressure, a clever piece of interplay resulted in a clear foul inside the Inter box. The referee pointed to the spot without hesitation. Stepping up with ice in his veins, Kevin De Bruyne made no mistake, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and firing Napoli into a deserved 1-0 lead in the 33rd minute.
The goal sent the stadium into a frenzy, but Inter, known for their resilience, did not crumble. They finished the half strongly, searching for an equalizer, but Napoli’s defense held firm, taking their narrow lead into the break.
Second-Half Explosion: A Flurry of Goals
The second half began with even greater intensity. Inter manager Simone Inzaghi clearly demanded a response, but it was Napoli who struck again.
In the 54th minute, Scott McTominay found himself in an advanced position and unleashed a powerful strike that found the back of the net, doubling Napoli’s advantage to 2-0. The goal was a shock to Inter’s system and a testament to Napoli’s ambitious game plan.
Just as it seemed Napoli might run away with it, Inter fought back. A rapid counter-attack saw them breach the Napoli defense, leading to a penalty of their own. Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Inter’s reliable man from the spot, coolly converted in the 59th minute. Suddenly, at 2-1, the game was wide open once more, and the tension was palpable.
Anguissa’s Decisive Strike Ends Inter’s Hopes
The next goal would be crucial, and it was Napoli who seized the moment. As Inter pushed forward searching for the equalizer, they left gaps at the back. Napoli capitalized brilliantly.
In the 66th minute, just seven minutes after Inter had clawed one back, Frank Anguissa delivered the decisive blow. The Cameroonian midfielder timed his run to perfection, latching onto a through ball and finishing with composure to restore Napoli’s two-goal cushion at 3-1. This goal effectively broke Inter’s momentum and sent a wave of celebration—and relief—washing over the Maradona.
Napoli Beat Inter 3-1: Napoli Conquer the Summit
This victory, where Napoli beat Inter, is far more than just revenge or a simple win against a rival. Its impact is seismic on the Serie A table.
With these three points, Napoli leaps over both AC Milan and Inter to claim the 1st place spot in the league. The table, as it stands after 8 matches, shows:
- Napoli: 18 Points
- Milan: 17 Points
- Inter: 15 Points
Napoli has now positioned themselves as the team to beat. Their blend of tactical discipline, midfield power (with De Bruyne, McTominay, and Anguissa all scoring), and clinical finishing was on full display. They not only defeated a title contender but also took their spot at the top.
For Inter, this loss is a significant setback. It stops their momentum and sees them drop to third, leaving them with crucial questions to answer as they look to close the gap.
As the final whistle blew, the celebrations in Naples began. This 3-1 victory wasn’t just a win; it was a powerful declaration that Napoli is all in for the Scudetto.
