Serie A is hot until the last minute

Coach Antonio Conte is getting closer to helping Napoli win the Scudetto.

Serie A 2024/25 is witnessing one of the most dramatic Scudetto races in recent history. With just one point separating Napoli and Inter before the final round, this is not simply a contest of strength but also a complex psychological game where every move can decide the fate of the entire season.

The difference between Napoli and Inter Milan

Antonio Conte, with his vast experience of winning major trophies, knows that a one-point advantage means nothing. His ban on fans waving the number 4 flag - symbolizing a fourth title - is not superstition but a subtle psychological calculation. Conte knows that complacency is Napoli's biggest enemy in this crucial period.

The current Napoli squad, with McTominay and the Lukaku-Raspadori strike force, shows considerable depth. However, the psychological pressure of defending the top spot could prove to be a burden. The game against Cagliari - who are safe from relegation - may seem easy but there are many hidden pitfalls.

Simone Inzaghi's decision to rotate Inter Milan's squad against Como reflects a clear philosophy: the Champions League is more important than Serie A. Resting key players like Lautaro Martinez, Barella and Mkhitaryan shows that Inter are betting on a long-term plan.

This is a bold and risky decision. If Napoli stumble, Inter may regret missing a golden opportunity to win the Scudetto. On the other hand, if Napoli win, this strategy will be considered wise as Inter can fully concentrate on the Champions League final.

Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi is more focused on the UEFA Champions League front.

The difference in approach between the two teams reflects two different management philosophies. Conte and Napoli have gone all-in on Serie A, seeing it as a golden opportunity to return to the top after years of struggle. Inter, as defending champions, can afford to look further afield, aiming for bigger European honours.

However, Inter's inability to fully control their own destiny - having to depend on Napoli's results - is a significant psychological disadvantage. In football, having to wait for someone else's results always creates uncomfortable pressure.

Waiting for the unexpected

Serie A has long been known for its unpredictable surprises. The strange draws of recent weeks have proven that nothing is certain in this league. Cagliari, while safe, could still be an unwanted spoiler for Napoli.

The possibility of a play-off – something that hasn’t happened since 1964 – remains, though small. It would be a dream scenario for neutral fans, but a nightmare for both teams.

Inter Milan's decision also raises a larger question about the priorities of trophies in modern football. Is the Champions League really so important to them that it is worth the trade-off? Or is this just overconfidence from a team accustomed to success?

Will there be any surprises in the final round of Serie A season 2024/25?

For Napoli, this could be their last chance for years to win the Scudetto with their current squad. Missing out would be a huge blow, especially as they have been top for much of the season.

This year's Scudetto race is not only a physical or technical competition, but also a battle of psychology and management philosophy. Napoli with the pressure to defend the top spot, Inter with multi-front calculations - both have their own challenges.

In the next few hours, Serie A will have its answer to the question: Will absolute concentration prevail over complex calculations? Whatever the outcome, this season has proven that in football, nothing is certain until the final whistle blows.

Source: https://znews.vn/serie-a-nong-bong-den-phut-chot-post1555148.html