Gli Azzurri Hold Off Lazio in Tempestuous Encounter With Three Dismissals
Goals before the break from Spinazzola and Rrahmani earned a win for Napoli at Lazio in a match marred by a trio of red cards.
This result moves Conte's side to just one point behind of Serie A leaders AC Milan, who won on Friday. Inter occupy third place but can return to the top with a victory in their evening fixture.
Dominance Despite Injury Woes
Despite missing a number of injured players, Napoli commanded the game with measured attacks. The opener arrived when Matteo Politano's cross was drilled home by the wing-back at the back post.
The advantage was extended in the first half as Rrahmani guided a header from a Politano free-kick into the net. Napoli went close to a third goal shortly after when Eljif Elmas saw his effort crash against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Red Cards
The second half brought more injury concern for the visitors when a player was forced off. This incident triggered a short altercation, resulting in yellow cards for a Napoli defender and the home side's Tijjani Noslin—who subsequently received a second caution for a foul.
"My compliments to the lads, playing with such a high standard of quality and physical strength while preventing Lazio play is difficult," remarked the triumphant manager. "Our performance was at a very high level of quality."
Tempers flared again late on as two opponents became involved in a fierce exchange, requiring the coach to step in. The two players were dismissed for their involvement in the incident.
Other Continental Action
In Spain's La Liga, Sevilla suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to lowly the Granotas. The visitors took control with a well-worked team goal before scoring two more goals in the second period to complete a convincing victory.
In other news, Real Madrid face significant must-win when they welcome Betis, after their arch-rivals extended their lead at the top. Later on other match, Atlético Madrid make the journey to face Real Sociedad.
In France, a landmark capital clasico takes place as Paris FC visit giants Paris Saint-Germain. This match marks the first top-flight encounter between the neighbors in decades, bringing significant spice to the weekend's action.
