On-loan Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund scored twice, both assisted by Kevin De Bruyne, as Napoli beat Sporting CP 2-1 to secure their first Champions League win of the season.
The 22-year-old Dane opened the scoring in the 36th minute, racing onto a precise through ball from Kevin De Bruyne before finishing past Rui Silva. Sporting responded after the break when Matteo Politano fouled Maximiliano Araujo, allowing Luis Suárez to level from the penalty spot on 62 minutes. But Hojlund restored Napoli’s lead in the 79th minute with a brave header from another De Bruyne cross.
It was a strong response from the Italian champions, who lost their opening group match 2-0 against Manchester City. Hojlund’s quick impact has been crucial since joining on loan from United on transfer deadline day after failing to feature in Erik ten Hag’s first four matches this season.
Hojlund, who scored 26 goals in 95 appearances for United after his £72m move from Atalanta in 2023, struggled in last season’s Premier League campaign with just four goals. But he has already netted three in five games for Napoli, who are obliged to buy him permanently for £38m if they qualify for the knockout stages.
Sporting, winners against Kairat in their opener, have now matched Napoli with one win and one defeat.