Osimhen on target as Napoli come back to draw with Barcelona in first leg

SSC Napoli managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Barcelona in the round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League, defying expectations. This result has left the outcome of the tie uncertain. Despite the draw, Napoli's record against Barcelona remains unchanged, with no wins in their last five encounters (D3, L2).

The Italian champions faced off against the Spanish champions in the round of 16, with Napoli under their third manager of the season after Walter Mazzarri's dismissal.

Francesco Calzona, the new manager from Slovakia, would have been worried about his team's slow start against the Catalan side, who created numerous early chances with their high pressing game.

Lamine Yamal posed a threat for Barca, testing Alex Meret with two early shots on goal. Despite Napoli's struggles, Lewandowski came close for Barca, but was denied by Meret.

The Azzurri failed to register a shot in the first half, making it a disappointing start for them. Napoli improved in the second half, with Politano having an early header off target.

However, Barca eventually broke the deadlock through Lewandowski, who finished calmly really after Pedri's assist.

Osimhen equalized for Napoli in the 75th minute with a brilliant goal, receiving the ball with his back to goal, turning, and finishing past ter Stegen.

The Italian team appeared to be rejuvenated by the objective, as did the supporters in the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. However, despite their efforts, neither team managed to score a winning goal.

Calzona must have been satisfied to see his team still in the match after being outperformed for 75 minutes.

On the other hand, Xavi, in the opposing dugout, was frustrated by his team's lack of a killer instinct. They now have work to do if they want to secure their 14th consecutive appearance in the quarter-finals of the competition.