La Gazzetta dello Sport has broken down what it believes will be the four decisive duels in Napoli vs Inter, with De Bruyne and Barella one such contest that could decide the result at the Maradona.

On one flank, Matteo Politano will test Federico Dimarco, pitting Napoli’s 1v1 specialist against Inter’s relentless runner and overlapping creator.

GdS, via FCInterNews, sees this as one of the most influential wide battles of the night.

In midfield, the spotlight falls on Kevin De Bruyne and Nicolo Barella, two leaders with different strengths.

One dictates play with invention and final balls.

Meanwhile, the other with energy, timing and aggression.

Whoever controls this lane could tilt the entire match.

Napoli Vs Inter Milan – Key Battles Like Barella Vs De Bruyne Could Decide Contest

Kevin De Bruyne Napoli
CASTEL DI SANGRO, ITALY – AUGUST 03: Kevin De Bruyne of SSC Napoli looks dejected during the pre-season friendly match between Napoli and Stade Brestois 29 at Stadio Teofilo Patini on August 03, 2025 in Castel di Sangro, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Bellini/Getty Images)

At the base, Billy Gilmour and Hakan Calhanoglu will engage in a tactical chess match.

Gilmour must resist Inter’s pressure to build Napoli’s rhythm.

Meanwhile Calhanoglu will look to dictate possession and vertical passing.

Up front, Ange-Yoan Bonny will battle Sam Beukema, a duel of strength, positioning and timing inside the box.

GdS notes that a single moment here could shift the match.