Frank Anguissa’s dramatic 95th-minute goal secured a 1-0 victory for Napoli against a resolute Cagliari side. The reigning Serie A champions struggled to break down Cagliari’s defense until the dying seconds when Anguissa’s powerful shot found the back of the net. The win was crucial for Napoli as they look to build momentum early in the season, while Cagliari, despite the defeat, showed signs of promise with their strong defensive display.
In a Serie A match that seemed destined for a draw, Napoli pulled off a dramatic 1-0 victory against Cagliari, thanks to a 95th-minute goal from Frank Anguissa. The match, held at Napoli's home ground, the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, saw the reigning champions struggle to break down a resilient Cagliari defense for almost the entire match. Cagliari, who were predicted by many to face another relegation battle this season, displayed a strong defensive performance, frustrating Napoli's attacking attempts throughout the game.
Napoli dominated possession and created numerous chances, but Cagliari's goalkeeper and defenders stood firm, denying them time and again. The visitors also threatened sporadically on the counter-attack, keeping the Napoli defense on their toes. As the clock ticked down, it appeared that Cagliari would secure a valuable point on the road. However, football is a game of moments, and in the dying seconds, Napoli found the breakthrough they desperately needed.
A well-worked move saw the ball fall to Frank Anguissa on the edge of the penalty area. The midfielder, known for his energy and tenacity, showed composure and skill to create space for himself before unleashing a powerful shot that found the back of the net. The stadium erupted in jubilation as Napoli snatched victory from the jaws of a draw. Anguissa's goal was not only a testament to his individual quality but also to Napoli's never-say-die attitude. Even when things weren't going their way, they kept pushing until the very end.
The victory was crucial for Napoli as they look to build momentum early in the season and mount a strong title defense. While they weren't at their fluent best, their ability to grind out a win in a tight game is a sign of champions. For Cagliari, despite the late heartbreak, there were positives to take from the match. Their defensive organization and resilience were impressive, and they showed that they will be a tough team to beat this season. However, they will need to find a way to add more attacking threat if they are to avoid another relegation scrap.
The match also highlighted the importance of squad depth and the ability to call upon players who can make a difference from the bench. Napoli's coach, knowing the importance of rotating his squad to keep players fresh throughout the long season, made a couple of key substitutions in the second half, one of those players playing a crucial role in the build-up to the winning goal. These changes injected fresh energy and creativity into Napoli's attack, ultimately helping them to break down Cagliari's stubborn resistance.
Looking ahead, Napoli will be hoping to build on this win and continue their winning run. They face a tough run of fixtures in the coming weeks, but they will be confident that they have the quality and determination to overcome any challenges. Cagliari, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back from this defeat and pick up their first win of the season in their next match. They will need to maintain their defensive solidity while also improving their attacking output.
Here is the video of the goal:
+ ‘. Paura e delirio al “Maradona”. ️#NapoliCagliari 1-0, Zambo Anguissa la decide così! ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/UGKyRSODDN
— Lega Serie A (@SerieA) August 31, 2025
The late goal by Anguissa sparked wild celebrations among the Napoli players and fans, highlighting the passion and emotion that makes Serie A such a compelling league to watch. As the final whistle blew, the Napoli players saluted their supporters, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout the match. This victory was not just about three points; it was about demonstrating resilience, determination, and a commitment to fighting until the very end.