Nigerian striker Akor Adams delivered a clinical finish and a dominant all-round display as Venezia claimed their first Serie A win of the 2026/27 season with a shock 1-0 victory over Napoli at Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo on Saturday.

The decisive moment arrived just three minutes into the second half. Simon Sohm launched a precise long ball over the top.

Adams used his power and pace to win a physical duel against Napoli defender Amir Rrahmani, drove into the box, and fired a low right-footed shot that took a slight deflection before nestling inside the far post past Alex Meret.

The goal, Adams’ second of the Serie A campaign, sparked wild celebrations among the home fans and left the visitors stunned.

Adams was a constant menace throughout. The 26-year-old Venezia No. 45 led the line with intensity, registering six shots (three on target), nine touches in the opposition box, and relentless pressure that disrupted Napoli’s back line.

His physical presence and movement created problems even when the final ball didn’t arrive, forcing Napoli into uncomfortable defensive situations.

Napoli, managed by Massimiliano Allegri and featuring high-profile names including Kevin De Bruyne, dominated possession (around 69%) and created more attacks.

Yet they struggled to convert control into clear chances. After falling behind, Allegri made a triple substitution around the 54th minute, introducing De Bruyne, Rasmus Højlund, and another attacking option.

The changes nearly paid off when Højlund was fouled in the box by Matías Moreno, earning a penalty in the 66th minute. De Bruyne stepped up but saw his effort brilliantly saved by Venezia goalkeeper Filip Stankovi?, who dived to his right to preserve the clean sheet.

Stankovi? produced several key interventions, while Venezia’s compact shape and counter-attacking threat frustrated the visitors. Adams nearly added a second later in the half during another break, but his effort flew over.

The result is a massive boost for Venezia, who had lost their opening six league matches and sat bottom of the table.

Securing three points against a strong Napoli side marks a significant turning point and validates the club’s investment in Adams, who joined from Sevilla in the summer.

For the Nigerian international, the goal and performance reinforce his growing reputation in Serie A after earlier contributions, including a goal against Fiorentina.

Napoli remain in mid-table contention but will be disappointed to drop points against a newly competitive Venezia side.

Adams’ blend of power, finishing, and work rate was the difference on the day, turning a hard-fought contest into a memorable home victory.

This upset at the Penzo highlights how individual brilliance from players like Akor Adams can rewrite the script against higher-profile opposition in Serie A.

Venezia will look to build on this momentum, while Adams continues to stake his claim as a key figure for both club and country.

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