Gli Azzurri Overcome Lazio in Fiery Clash Featuring Three Dismissals
First-half strikes from Leonardo Spinazzola and Rrahmani earned a win for Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in a fixture overshadowed by three dismissals.
This result moves Conte's side to just one point behind of Serie A pace-setters AC Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter Milan hold third place but can return to the summit with a win in their later match.
Dominance Despite Absences
Despite missing several injured personnel, Napoli commanded the proceedings with patient build-up play. The first goal arrived when Politano's cross was drilled home by Spinazzola at the back post.
The advantage was extended in the first half as Rrahmani guided a glancing header from a Politano set-piece into the net. Napoli came close to a third shortly after when Elmas watched his effort crash against the woodwork.
Flashpoints and Dismissals
The second half brought more worry for the away side when a winger was forced off. The stoppage triggered a short confrontation, resulting in bookings for a Napoli defender and the home side's Noslin—who subsequently was shown a second yellow for a challenge.
"My compliments to my players, playing with such a high standard of technical ability and physical strength without letting Lazio play is not easy," remarked the winning manager. "Our performance was at a very high level of play."
Tensions flared again late on as players from both sides became involved in a heated confrontation, requiring the manager to intervene. Both individuals were shown red cards for their involvement in the incident.
Other Continental Action
In Spain's La Liga, Sevilla suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to struggling Levante. The visitors took control with a fine team goal before scoring two further goals in the second half to complete a convincing victory.
In other news, Real Madrid face major pressure when they play Real Betis, after their arch-rivals extended their lead at the top. Later on other match, Atleti make the journey to face Real Sociedad.
Turning to Ligue 1, a landmark Parisian clasico is scheduled as the newly-promoted side visit giants PSG. The fixture marks the first top-flight encounter between the two clubs in over 36 years, adding extra intrigue to the occasion.
