Napoli failed to achieve more than a goalless draw at Belgian side Genk. The Neapolitans attempted to win the match from the start, establishing a decidedly offensive play from the opening minutes. However, as time wore on, they lost focus. Ancelotti brought on Milik as the center of attack, supported by Lozano. Callejon and Ruiz lined up on the flanks, Elmas and Allan in midfield, and Koulibaly, suspended for the league, was in defense. The first chance came in the 15th minute, with Callejon hitting the post. Milik then tapped in, but his first shot was blocked, then he tried again from the ground and hit the crossbar. Five minutes later, the Belgians caused a scare through Cuesta: the ball went the wrong way and went just wide. The match heated up. In the 20th minute, Napoli again struck the crossbar with Milik. In the 37th minute, the Azzurri had a double chance: Koulibaly stopped and shot with the keeper down, but Hrosovsky cleared off the line. The move continued, with Koulibaly heading for Milik, who sent the ball over. In the 43rd minute, Napoli goalkeeper Meret performed a miracle save on Berge to keep the score at bay. The second half seemed to continue. Callejon had a chance, firing wide from four meters. As the minutes passed, the action slowed, and fatigue began to set in. And in the 84th minute, the home team almost scored. Ito crossed, Allan slipped dramatically, and Hagi fired a first-time right-footer wide. The final minutes were uneventful, and the match ended in a draw. There was considerable confusion over Ancelotti's decision to leave captain Insigne in the stands.
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