Preview: Napoli's good home form could be the difference
Napoli took on Roma just a week ago in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-finals, and came away with a disappointing defeat. Two first half goals from Gervinho and Strootman had Roma looking comfortable heading into the break, but things quickly changed.
An own goal from De Sanctis in the 47th minute, was following by an equalizing goal from Mertens. Napoli looked destined to take a positive 2-2 draw back home with them, but an 88th minute strike from Gervinho gave Roma the victory.
Now the Giallorossi will have to dig in and perform for 90 minutes, in order to book their place in the final against Fiorentina.
The hosts will be looking to do the same, as they come in fresh off of a 3-1 victory over Milan.
"We need a good performance against them," Benitez said in his press conference on Tuesday. "Both in the league and in the Coppa, we have played well against Roma and I think the fact that we are playing at home can make a difference."
Taking a look at Napoli's home form, with just one defeat all season, Roma could be in for a tough match.
Their only defeat came in November of 2013 against Parma. Since then, Napoli have won six and drawn two at the Stadio San Paolo. But what will not be favorable for the hosts will be their home form against Roma.
In their last eight meetings where Napoli has played host, Roma have won four, lost two and drew two. If Rafa Benitez is to progress into the next round, he will need his players to put in a fully committed performance.
Napoli will have all their players available for this match, with Jorginho, Gokhan Inler and Jose Callejon likely to start, after missing out on Sunday's match against Sassuolo.
Rudy Garcia will be expecting a tough 90 minutes, knowing that Napoli need to win in order to go through.
"Napoli have to win and we will go there determined to gain qualification," he told reporters. "Our philosophy is to play attacking football and we will go out there determined to win."
Their scoreless draw against Lazio at the weekend will not be the best result prior to Wednesday night, but Roma has proven that they have what it takes to win. They are currently second in Serie A, four points ahead of Napoli and with a game in hand.
Garcia will be without Radja Nainggolan who is suspended. But good news for Roma will be that Miralem Pjanic, Douglas Maicon and Mehdi Benatia are all fit to play.
Where To Watch This Match - Live Stream, Start Time, TV Channels, Live Scores
Watch Napoli vs AS Roma live on Wednesday, February 12, 2014:
In Canada at 14:45 ET on: beIN Sports Play Canada, Mediaset Italia
In the UK at 19:45 GMT on: Sky Sports 3/HD
In the USA at 14:45 ET on: beIN Sports Play
For viewers who are outside of these countries, please visit the Napoli vs AS Roma match page for full TV listings.
