Napoli suffered a 2–1 defeat to French Ligue 1 side Stade Brestois in a pre-season friendly, dealing a frustrating blow to manager Antonio Conte as his side continues to take shape ahead of the 2025/26 Serie A campaign.
Despite a spirited display and a second consecutive goal from new striker Lorenzo Lucca, defensive errors and missed chances cost Napoli dearly.
The match, held at a neutral venue, featured several summer arrivals including Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Noa Lang, and goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, who made his debut.
Brest Punish Napoli’s Defensive Lapses
Napoli started the game on the front foot with Brazilian winger David Neres creating early chances. However, it was Brest who struck first, with Ludovic Ajorque pouncing on a poor clearance from Amir Rrahmani to slot home.
Ajorque doubled his tally minutes later, nodding in a precise cross from Romain Del Castillo to make it 2–0. Napoli responded by ramping up the pressure, with Kevin De Bruyne hitting the post from a back-heel attempt and Lukaku linking well with Lucca in the final third.
Lucca Scores Again, But It’s Not Enough
Napoli’s persistence finally paid off when Matteo Politano picked out Lorenzo Lucca, who tapped in from close range after a dazzling run by captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo.
Napoli pushed hard for an equaliser late on, Zambo Anguissa’s header grazed the crossbar and De Bruyne tested the Brest keeper with a rocket from distance, but the French side held firm.
Conte was left visibly frustrated on the touchline, as Napoli’s defensive vulnerabilities overshadowed their attacking promise.
