Napoli have begun their Serie A campaign with a 2-0 victory over Genoa, giving Massimiliano Allegri a positive start to his first league game in charge.
The champions looked composed from the opening stages, controlling possession and patiently searching for openings against a Genoa side determined to stay compact.
The breakthrough eventually came through Kevin De Bruyne, who marked his first Serie A appearance with a goal. The Belgian midfielder showed the quality that made Napoli so eager to bring him to Italy, finding the space to finish and give his new team the lead.
Genoa attempted to respond, but Napoli remained in control. Their midfield continued to dictate the tempo, while the defence dealt comfortably with most of the danger created by the visitors.
The second half became more physical as Genoa pushed forward in search of an equaliser. That created additional spaces for Napoli to exploit on the counter.
Napoli eventually found the second goal they needed, putting the result beyond serious doubt and allowing Allegri to manage the remainder of the match.
The victory gives Napoli three important points and provides an early boost to Allegri as he begins his latest challenge in Italian football.
For De Bruyne, scoring on his league debut could hardly have been a better introduction. The former Premier League star has arrived with enormous expectations, and his first competitive goal will only increase the excitement surrounding his move.
Napoli will know there is plenty of work ahead if they want to remain among Italy’s strongest teams, but the opening performance was controlled, efficient and ultimately convincing.
Allegri can now look ahead to the next fixture with confidence, while Napoli supporters have already been given an early glimpse of what their new-look side could offer this season.
