Gli Azzurri Hold Off The Biancocelesti in Tempestuous Clash With Multiple Dismissals
Goals before the break from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani delivered a 2-0 triumph for Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in a fixture overshadowed by multiple sendings-off.
The win propels Napoli to just one point behind of Serie A leaders Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter hold third place but can return to the summit with a victory in their later fixture.
Dominance Amid Injury Woes
Despite missing several injured personnel, the southern Italian side commanded the game with patient attacks. The first goal arrived when Politano's cross was drilled home by Spinazzola at the far post.
The lead was extended in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani guided a glancing header from another Politano free-kick into the bottom corner. They went close to a third shortly after when Elmas saw his effort crash against the woodwork.
Flashpoints and Dismissals
After the break brought further injury concern for the visitors when a winger limped off. This incident triggered a short confrontation, leading to yellow cards for Rrahmani and Lazio's Noslin—who then was shown a second yellow for a foul.
"My compliments to my players, performing with this level of quality and intensity without letting the opposition play is difficult," remarked the winning head coach. "Our performance was at a very high level of play."
Tempers boiled over again late on as players from both sides became involved in a fierce exchange, prompting the coach to intervene. Both individuals were sent off for their part in the clash.
Elsewhere European Action
Over in La Liga, the Andalusian side suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to lowly Levante. Levante took control with a fine move before adding two more goals in the second half to seal a comprehensive victory.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos host major pressure when they play Betis, after their arch-rivals extended their advantage at the top. Later on late match, Atleti make the journey to face Real Sociedad.
In France, a landmark Parisian clasico takes place as the newly-promoted side face powerhouses PSG. This match represents the first top-flight meeting between the two clubs in over 36 years, adding extra spice to the occasion.
