Champions League: Kevin De Bruyne Compares Rasus Højlund To Erling Haaland After Napoli’s Win

Napoli secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Sporting CP in their UEFA Champions League group stage on October 1, thanks to a standout performance from Rasmus Højlund. The on-loan Manchester United striker scored both goals, each assisted by Kevin De Bruyne, helping Napoli claim their first win of the 2025-26 Champions League campaign.

Despite Sporting CP leveling through a Luis Suárez penalty, Højlund’s clinical finishing ensured Napoli’s success. After the game, De Bruyne compared Højlund’s attacking style to that of Erling Haaland, reflecting on their shared experience at Manchester City.

Højlund’s Impactful Brace Secures Napoli Victory

Højlund has been a major revelation since he arrived at Napoli in August 2025 on loan from Manchester United, and his brace against Sporting CP reinforced his growing reputation. Højlund opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a precise finish after a slick assist from De Bruyne, whose vision and passing continue to drive Napoli’s attack. Despite Sporting’s equalizer via Luis Suárez’s penalty in the 62nd minute, Højlund remained composed and struck again in the 79th minute, once more assisted by De Bruyne, to restore Napoli’s lead and ultimately secure the victory.

This performance highlights Højlund’s increasing confidence and adaptability in Serie A and European competition. His ability to exploit spaces, link play, and finish chances is proving vital for Napoli as they aim to progress in the Champions League.

De Bruyne Praises Højlund, Draws Parallels To Haaland

De Bruyne’s pivotal role in both goals was matched by his insightful post-match comments regarding Højlund’s development. De Bruyne noted that Højlund’s style of play shares similarities with Haaland’s, who was a teammate at Manchester City. He emphasized Højlund’s exceptional movement behind defenses and ability to find space intelligently, traits reminiscent of Haaland’s approach.

De Bruyne said, “Rasmus reminds me a lot of Erling in terms of how he attacks the space. He’s quick, intelligent, and deadly in front of the goal. I’m happy to help him settle and grow because he brings a lot of quality to Napoli’s forward line.” This endorsement from one of football’s most creative midfielders adds significant weight to Højlund’s rising profile.

Napoli’s Champions League Ambitions Bolstered By Key Duo

Napoli’s first win in the 2025-26 Champions League group stage is a crucial step in their European ambitions. The combination of Højlund’s finishing and De Bruyne’s creativity has given the club a new dynamic edge. Coach Luciano Spalletti can rely on this partnership to navigate one of Europe’s toughest competitions successfully.

With this victory, Napoli climbs higher in their group, signaling intent to compete with Europe’s elite. Both players’ chemistry on the pitch could prove vital in the upcoming fixtures, as Napoli seeks to secure qualification from the group stage and make a deep run in the tournament.