Napoli Edge Osasuna 2-1 as Politano and Lucca Shine in First International Friendly Under Allegri

Napoli continued their preparations for the 2026/27 campaign with an encouraging 2-1 victory over Spanish side Osasuna, earning their first international pre-season win under Massimiliano Allegri at Castel di Sangro.

Following mixed results against Arezzo and Carrarese earlier in the summer, the Italian champions produced a more polished display against La Liga opposition. Goals from Matteo Politano and Lorenzo Lucca proved enough to secure victory despite a second-half penalty from Ante Budimir that briefly gave Osasuna hope.

Politano Rewards Napoli's Bright Start

Although Osasuna enjoyed spells of possession in the opening stages, Napoli looked the more threatening side whenever they attacked.

Frank Anguissa forced an early effort wide before Leonardo Spinazzola repeatedly caused problems down the left flank with his direct running and intelligent movement.

The breakthrough arrived in the 27th minute after another excellent move involving Spinazzola. The experienced wing-back skipped past his marker before delivering a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Matteo Politano, who struck a superb left-footed volley beyond goalkeeper Sergio Fernández.

The goal lifted Napoli's confidence considerably, with Politano nearly doubling his tally shortly before the break when his curling free-kick clipped the outside of the crossbar.

Lucca Makes His Mark

As expected during pre-season, Allegri rotated almost his entire team at half-time, introducing several fresh faces while maintaining Napoli's attacking intensity.

One player eager to impress was Lorenzo Lucca.

The striker initially collected a booking moments after entering the pitch but responded in the best possible fashion in the 53rd minute. Holding off his defender with strength and composure, Lucca latched onto Anguissa's through ball before calmly finishing across goal to double Napoli's advantage.

It was another encouraging reminder of the Italian forward's ability to combine physicality with clinical finishing as he continues to fight for a regular starting role this season.

Budimir Gives Osasuna Hope

Napoli appeared comfortable for much of the second half until a defensive mistake invited Osasuna back into the contest.

Young defender Nosa Obaretin fouled Ante Budimir inside the penalty area, allowing the Croatian striker to step up and convert confidently from the spot despite Vanja Milinković-Savić guessing the correct direction.

The goal shifted momentum in Osasuna's favour as the Spanish side pressed for an equaliser during the closing stages.

Napoli Hold Firm Under Pressure

Osasuna increased their attacking pressure after reducing the deficit, forcing Napoli to defend a series of dangerous crosses and set-pieces.

Milinković-Savić produced several important interventions, while Lucca contributed defensively by clearing one threatening corner.

Napoli also threatened on the counter through Noa Lang and Alisson Santos, although they were unable to add a third goal before the final whistle.

Despite late pressure from the visitors, Allegri's side remained organised to record a deserved victory.

Encouraging Signs for Allegri

Beyond the result, Allegri will be pleased with several individual performances as Napoli continue building fitness ahead of the new campaign.

Politano once again demonstrated his importance with an energetic attacking display, while Spinazzola provided creativity throughout the first half.

Lucca's composed finish will strengthen his case for more minutes this season, and Anguissa delivered another influential performance in midfield by controlling possession and contributing an assist.

Although Obaretin endured another difficult outing defensively, the overall display suggested Napoli are gradually developing the balance and cohesion Allegri wants from his squad.

What Comes Next

Napoli will continue their pre-season schedule on August 8, when they welcome Celta Vigo to Castel di Sangro.

With the transfer window still open and Allegri expecting further reinforcements, the upcoming fixture presents another valuable opportunity to fine-tune tactics before the start of the Serie A season.

SportsLigue