Antonio Conte urges Napoli to treat the Supercoppa Italiana final against Bologna as a defining moment, stressing the trophy’s importance in Riyadh. The match offers the first Italian silverware of the 2025-26 season, with Napoli seeking a first title since the 2020 Coppa Italia and Conte chasing another cup success.
Conte approaches an eighth major final as a manager, aiming for a first triumph since lifting the 2018 FA Cup with Chelsea. Napoli arrive after beating AC Milan 2-0 in Thursday’s semi-final, a result that restored belief and highlighted the squad’s response under Conte in a high-pressure environment.
"Victories bring you energy and confidence, Conte said.We're playing for a trophy, and I think that's a big boost for those who play in this
final. In terms of energy, we've recovered. As I always say to the boys, you only ever remember who won. And it will always be like that. "
The Supercoppa Italiana showdown also tests Napoli’s mentality against Bologna, current Coppa Italia holders. Conte insists motivation must be equal or higher than the opponent’s. "If this is the case, that would be the end for us, he added.They have to prove that they are better than us. We have to, at least, match their desire to win. "
Conte underlines the threat posed by Bologna and head coach Vincenzo Italiano, while also expressing respect. "I can only speak well of Vincenzo [Italiano]. He has a great desire to learn and improve. Us coaches must try to grow and improve our knowledge every day. He's hungry, he wants to get there, he has passion, and he shows it. He does a great job wherever he goes. "
Napoli’s route to the Supercoppa Italiana final included a controlled victory over AC Milan. The club celebrated progression with a clear message after the semi-final at Riyadh, displaying confidence before the title match against Bologna.
Full time: #NapoliMilan 2-0 We're in the final! #ForzaNapoliSempre pic.twitter.com/7tEG550WSDOfficial SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) December 18, 2025
Conte reminds Napoli of recent achievements to frame the Supercoppa Italiana opportunity. "We can't forget where we've come from. We won an extraordinary Scudetto after finishing the season before in 10th place. That is something that is not emphasised enough. We've come here to play for the Supercoppa, and we are in the final. We've got a chance to win a title and progress in other competitions. "
Conte’s record in major finals offers perspective for Napoli’s Supercoppa Italiana bid, highlighting both experience and recent gaps between trophies.
The Supercoppa Italiana contest in Riyadh gives Napoli a chance to convert past progress into fresh success and break a five-year wait for a final victory. Bologna’s status as defending Coppa Italia winners adds difficulty, yet Conte’s comments show clear expectations for intensity, focus and trophy-minded ambition from Napoli’s squad.
