“Osimhen will be important against Liverpool”- Former Chelsea striker tips Osimhen to make the difference in UCL clash

The Super Eagles striker is the top lynchpin for the Partenopeans, and his presence would be integral if they want to pick something against Liverpool

Former Chelsea striker Gianfranco Zola believes Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia could Make the difference for Napoli when they square off  Liverpool in their opening match of the UEFA Champions League.

Osimhen joined the Partenopeans two years ago in a deal believed to be worth over €70 million.

The masked Super Eagles marksman struggled in his first season, but he picked up last season, scoring 14 Serie A goals for the Naples giants. And this season, he has already found the net twice in five league games.

Napoli welcome Liverpool to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in their first game of the 2022/23 Champions League season. There have been reports that the 23-year-old may not be fit enough for the game. But Zola believes that he could be the game changer for Spalletti's side if he plays.

“Spalletti’s Napoli have a great opportunity to beat Klopp’s Liverpool if they play with the right weapons,” Zola said as per Anfield Watch.

“The pace, in a match against Liverpool is completely different from that of the league.

“I am confident. Napoli have good technical values. We hope there is Osimhen – his absences due to injury weighed on last season. And then there is that boy, the Georgian Kvaratskhelia. Napoli can enhance this group.”

The last time the Reds traveled to Italy, they emerged victorious against Inter Milan.

However, Napoli have proved to be a stubborn opponent for Liverpool in the Champions League. They have lost just twice in six meetings.

If the Partenopeans are going to get a result tonight, Osimhen would have to play a big part.