The Serie A season isn’t over yet, and everything will hinge on the final matchday to determine who will win the Scudetto between Napoli and Inter. On Sunday, Napoli managed only a 0-0 draw against Parma, while Inter squandered a lead, also drawing 2-2 against Lazio in Milan.
As it stands, Napoli leads by a single point going into the last round. If they secure victory, they claim the title. However, if both teams finish tied, a playoff will determine the champion.
Given recent scheduling, particularly for Inter, who will play PSG in the Champions League final on May 31, Serie A matches may be rescheduled. Here are the essential details:
When Will They Play?
With Inter set to face PSG on May 31 and the FIFA Club World Cup commencing on June 14, Serie A must wrap up by month-end. Expect an announcement this Monday regarding the fixtures for the last matchday, as both Como vs. Inter and Napoli vs. Cagliari will likely be moved to allow a playoff on Sunday, May 25, ensuring Inter rests before the European final.
The Playoff Final
Should Napoli and Inter finish on equal points, they will compete in a playoff final before Inter’s Champions League match. This tiebreaker rule, instituted after the 2021-22 season, was executed last time when AC Milan triumphed over Inter by just two points. The playoff lasts 90 minutes; if tied, it goes straight to penalties. The location of a tie-breaker between Inter and Napoli will be determined based on head-to-head performance. Currently, they are evenly matched, both matches ending in a 1-1 draw. If necessary, the following criteria will decide the venue:
- Goal difference in head-to-head matches
- Goal difference throughout the championship
- Total goals scored in the championship
- Coin toss
