'Napoli Ascend Again': Scudetto Glory Returns to the City of Maradona

By Kamaran Aziz

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a scene bursting with passion, nostalgia, and Neapolitan pride, SSC Napoli were crowned champions of Italy’s Serie A for the fourth time in the club’s storied history following a 2-0 home victory over Cagliari in the final round of the 2024–25 season. At the heart of this euphoric triumph stood the memory of Diego Armando Maradona, whose spirit still haunts the city's soul and stadium that now bears his name.

The victory, secured at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, stripped Inter Milan of the title despite their own 2-0 win against Como. With 82 points, Napoli edged out Inter by a single point in one of the most dramatic season finales in recent years—marking only the second time in 15 years that the Scudetto was decided on the final matchday.

Scottish midfielder Scott McTominay opened the scoring in the 42nd minute with a spectacular overhead kick after a seamless buildup from goalkeeper Alex Meret, while Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku sealed the victory with a powerful finish just five minutes into the second half.

This marks Napoli’s second title in three years—and fourth overall after their unforgettable triumphs in 1987 and 1990 with Maradona, and their modern resurgence in 2023. In a footballing city that breathes life into its club, this latest chapter in Napoli’s history reaffirms their status not just as a team, but as a symbol of resistance, flair, and southern pride.

Conte’s Tactical Renaissance

A lion’s share of credit belongs to head coach Antonio Conte, who transformed a faltering side into champions within a single season. Despite having to watch the title-clinching match from the stands due to suspension, Conte’s fingerprints were all over the campaign—most notably in the recruitment of McTominay and Lukaku from Manchester United and Chelsea, respectively.

Conte reshaped Napoli in his own image following what was considered the worst title defense in Serie A history. With limited reinforcements and key exits—including Victor Osimhen's loan to Galatasaray and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s mid-season departure to PSG—Conte’s leadership proved indispensable.

However, uncertainty looms over his future in Naples. Tensions with club president Aurelio De Laurentiis and public discontent with the club’s vision have cast doubt on whether Conte will remain beyond the summer.

McTominay’s Meteoric Rise and Lukaku’s Redemption 

Initially dismissed as a market appeasement, McTominay evolved into Napoli’s midfield dynamo—scoring 13 goals and providing four assists across competitions. His 12 goals in Serie A made him the league’s highest-scoring central midfielder.

Lukaku, likewise, revived his career with 14 goals and 10 assists, surpassing his inconsistent spells at Roma and Inter. Together, the pair gave Napoli the decisive edge in the title race.

Matchday Drama in Naples and Como 

Napoli came out with urgency, creating early chances through Raspadori, Gilmour, and Rrahmani—all denied by Cagliari’s inspired Albanian goalkeeper Elhan Kastrati. Tension gripped the Maradona Stadium as news filtered in that Inter had scored first against Como.

But relief came just before halftime with McTominay’s sensational goal. Lukaku doubled the lead in the 50th minute with a show of strength and clinical finishing, ensuring Napoli remained in control for the rest of the game.

Meanwhile, Inter did their part in Como with early goals from Stefan de Vrij and Joaquín Correa, but their efforts were ultimately in vain. Como’s farewell match for veteran goalkeeper Pepe Reina ended with a red card, symbolic of Inter’s misfortunes in the title run-in.

Inter’s Regret, Napoli’s Triumph

Despite reaching the UEFA Champions League semifinals after eliminating Bayern Munich, Inter faltered domestically. A series of stumbles—including back-to-back losses and a costly draw with Lazio—opened the door for Napoli to complete a stunning comeback.

Even a late slip by Napoli—a goalless draw with Parma in Round 37—was not enough to halt their momentum, as Inter failed to capitalize.

As the final whistle blew, joy exploded in Naples. In a city where football is more than sport, where Maradona is more than memory, Napoli’s triumph is a testament to spirit, grit, and artistry. The Scudetto returns, not just to a club, but to a people who turn every victory into a legend.

With Inter now turning their attention to the Champions League final against PSG in Munich, Napoli basks in the glory of another unforgettable season—proof that in Naples, football remains an undying religion.