From ‘magnificent’ opener to ‘overconfident’ penalty – Scott McTominay’s eventful night as Napoli enjoy big win

React to this story

A brilliant goal, an acrobatic assist and a missed penalty - Scott McTominay was involved in everything during Napoli's 4-0 win over Cremonese in Serie A on Friday.

Highlights: McTominay and De Bruyne on target as Napoli thrash Cremonese

Video credit: TNT Sports

The former Manchester United midfielder's eventful evening began straight from the off, as he scored a goal described as "magnificent", "incredible" and "wonderful" by the TNT Sports commentary team.

His former Premier League rival, Kevin De Bruyne, charged down the right flank before slipping the ball to McTominay, who was wide open and drove to the edge of the box before slotting home expertly inside three minutes.

"You're actually applauding, Tony Dorigo," TNT Sports' Paul Dempsey said to his co-commentator.

Serie A

From McFratm to England’s strike force: Which British players will star in Europe’s top leagues?

01/08/2026 at 11:39

Dorigo said: "Incredible. A wonderful goal. He didn't give this chance away. He still had plenty to do. He just runs off the midfield and into space. De Bruyne, of course, is going to pick him out superbly well.

"It goes through [the goalkeeper] and how often do we see that, into that bottom corner? It's a great finish."

Napoli went into the game sitting third in the Serie A table, three points behind Milan and nine points adrift of leaders Inter, having played one game more than both.

'Brilliant' McTominay strikes gives Napoli early lead over Cremonese

Video credit: TNT Sports

If they are to achieve the unthinkable and catch Cristian Chivu's side, they had to win on Friday and win comfortably - especially to boost their top four chances - and that is just what they did.

On the stroke of half-time, another former United player got involved in the action, as Red Devils loanee Rasmus Hojlund struck from the edge of the box, before his effort deflected beyond the goalkeeper.

A few minutes later, deep into added time at the end of the first half, McTominay was involved again with some spectacular play.

He did not quite get the assist, but his overhead kick to keep the ball in play on the byline was enough to help De Bruyne win the ball in the penalty box before finding the back of the net for 3-0.

"McTominay went for the spectacular, I think he'll settle for the assist!" Dempsey said.

Dorigo added: "What about this from McTominay? Incredible effort!"

Opportunistic De Bruyne slots home as Napoli run riot

Video credit: TNT Sports

McTominey could not stay away from the action, and when Napoli were awarded a penalty in the final 10 minutes, only one man was stepping up.

The Scotland international placed the ball on the spot from 12 yards, hoping to net his second of the match and 10th league goal of the season.

However, this time it did not go McTominay's way, as his low, lacklustre effort was comfortably saved by Cremonese's Emil Audero.

"Was the penalty overconfident?" Dempsey asked Dorigo, who answered: "I just thought Audero looked like he was always going that way."

Despite the missed spot kick, McTominay still delivered a Man of the Match display, as he continues to enjoy life in Italy.

The 29-year-old has scored 13 goals in all competitions this season, while he has netted 25 times in 75 matches since joining the club from United.

Stream the Premier League, men’s and women’s FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League and more live on TNT Sports and HBO Max.

Transfers