The Partenopei Hold Off The Biancocelesti in Fiery Contest With Three Sendings-Off
First-half strikes from Leonardo Spinazzola and Rrahmani earned a 2-0 triumph for Napoli at Lazio in a fixture marred by multiple sendings-off.
Three points moves Conte's side to within a single point of Serie A leaders AC Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter occupy third place but have a chance to go back to the top with a win in their evening fixture.
Control Amid Injury Woes
Despite missing a number of injured players, Napoli commanded the proceedings with measured build-up play. The opener came when Matteo Politano's delivery was drilled home by the wing-back at the far post.
The lead was extended in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani guided a glancing header from another Politano set-piece into the net. They went close to a third shortly after when Eljif Elmas saw his effort rattle against the woodwork.
Tempers Flare and Dismissals
After the break brought more worry for the away side when a winger was forced off. The stoppage sparked a short altercation, resulting in yellow cards for a Napoli defender and Lazio's Noslin—who then was shown a second caution for a challenge.
"My compliments to the lads, playing with this level of technical ability and physical strength while preventing Lazio have control is difficult," stated the winning manager. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of quality."
Tempers flared again late on as two opponents became involved in a fierce exchange, requiring the manager to intervene. The two players were shown red cards for their involvement in the incident.
Other Continental Action
Over in La Liga, Sevilla endured a heavy loss at home to lowly the Granotas. Levante established a lead with a fine move before scoring two more goals in the second half to seal a convincing win.
In other news, Los Blancos host significant must-win when they welcome Real Betis, after their rivals increased their lead at the summit. Later on late match, Atlético Madrid travel to face Real Sociedad.
Turning to Ligue 1, a historic Parisian derby takes place as Paris FC face powerhouses PSG. This match represents the first top-flight meeting between the neighbors in decades, adding extra spice to the weekend's action.
