Inspired Scott McTominay spares Man Utd pal’s blushes for Napoli exactly week on from Scotland-Denmark heroics
Inspired Scott McTominay spares Man Utd pal’s blushes for Napoli exactly week on from Scotland-Denmark heroics
Scott McTominay inspired Napoli to an important Champions League win – exactly a week on from igniting Scotland’s sensational victory over Denmark to reach the World Cup.
However, it was not such a good night for his Danish clubmate Rasmus Hojlund, who missed a penalty before Napoli pulled away to defeat Azeri side Qarabag 2-0 at the Estadio Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Tuesday night.
Napoli needed a win to maintain their hopes of finishing in the top 24 and advancing to the knock-out stages and after five rounds of fixtures, the Serie A title holders have seven points.
Following a cagey first half in Naples, the hosts were handed a great chance to take the lead on 56 minutes when they were awarded a penalty. However, Man Utd loanee’s Hojlund’s effort was repelled by Qarabag keeper Mateusz Kochalski.
Hojlund had scored from the spot early in the second half for Denmark at Hampden past Scotland keeper Craig Gordon, but ended up on the wrong side of the outcome. This time, he was able to celebrate a victory.
That was down to McTominay, who scored Scotland’s opener with a majestic overhead kick at the beginning of the win over Denmark last Tuesday. He finally broke Qarabag resistance with an altogether less beautiful strike when he prodded home from close range on 65 minutes after a goalmouth scramble and then Mark Jankovic netted an own goal seven minutes later to settle the match after McTominay’s attempt at a bicycle kick – again – struck the unfortunate defender.
Napoli are now 18th in the standings and face Benfica, FC Copenhagen and Chelsea in their remaining three league phase matches.
Antonio Conte’s men were once again without another Scotland internationalist Billy Gilmour, who continues to be sidelined by a groin issue. The former Rangers man is a major doubt for Sunday’s Serie A clash with leaders Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.
Scott McTominay is on fire! The Scottish midfielder has been instrumental in Napoli’s success, scoring crucial goals and earning praise from fans and critics alike. Just a week after his heroics in Scotland’s 4-2 win over Denmark, McTominay scored a brace in Napoli’s 2-0 win over Torino, helping his team go three points clear of rivals Inter ¹ ².
McTominay’s impressive form has sparked interest from Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United, with Napoli reportedly valuing him at £60 million. The 28-year-old has adapted seamlessly to life in Italy, scoring 11 goals in Serie A and becoming the highest-scoring Scotland international in the league’s history ³ ¹.
His performances have also earned him a Ballon d’Or nomination, and he’s been praised by the Italian press for his “monstrous” displays. McTominay’s success is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and it’s clear that Napoli’s decision to sign him was a shrewd one
