While the focus of the soccer world will be on the UEFA Champions League, the Europa League will also be in action this week as well. Just like in the Champions League, any team in the competition has a chance to win the competition. While many consider Wolfsburg of the Bundesliga and Sevilla of La Liga to be favorites to win the Europa League, there is also some dark horse contenders that stand in their way.
One of those dark horses is Napoli.
After snapping a five game winless streak, Rafa Benitez's men got back on track when they beat Fiorentina 3-0 to give the Azzurri's momentum heading into their quarterfinal draw versus favorites Wolfsburg. This is a very tough draw for Napoli as they will be tested by Wolfsburg's attacking and pace on the wings. Napoli's defense will certainly be tested by the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Andre Schurrle on the wings. They will also have to contend with Bas Dost who is on a goal scoring tear in the Bundesliga at the moment. Things could get ugly quickly even though it will only be the first leg of the quarterfinal draw.
But if Napoli can salvage at least a draw it will be a good victory for them. Wolfsburg has been a tough place to play all season and even the great Bayern Munich were beaten soundly at Wolfsburg. The key to the Napoli victory will be the play of the wingers and midfield. If the likes of Hamsik can attack the Wolfsburg defensive backs and track back to keep check of De Bruyne or Schurrle while tracking back to help the defensive backs will be key. While in the midfield if Napoli control the midfield and keep possession then they will have a good chance to win the first leg.
The first legs are key in any fixture and Napoli will have to step up if they want to advance further in the Europa League.