Napoli Hold Off The Biancocelesti in Fiery Clash With Three Dismissals
Early efforts from Leonardo Spinazzola and Rrahmani secured a win for Napoli at Lazio in a match marred by multiple sendings-off.
The win pushes Napoli to just one point behind of Serie A leaders AC Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter hold third place but have a chance to go back to the summit with a victory in their evening match.
Control Despite Injury Woes
Hampered by the absence of several key personnel, Napoli controlled the game with patient attacks. The opener came when Matteo Politano's delivery was drilled home by Spinazzola at the far post.
The advantage was doubled in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani powered a header from another Politano free-kick into the net. They came close to a third shortly after when Eljif Elmas saw his effort rattle against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Red Cards
After the break brought more worry for the away side when a winger limped off. The stoppage triggered a brief confrontation, resulting in yellow cards for a Napoli defender and the home side's Noslin—who subsequently received a second yellow for a foul.
"I must congratulate the lads, performing with this level of quality and intensity while preventing the opposition play is not easy," stated the triumphant manager. "We played at a exceptional level of quality."
Tensions boiled over again near the end as players from both sides became involved in a fierce confrontation, requiring the coach to step in. The two players were dismissed for their part in the clash.
Other Continental Fixtures
In Spain's La Liga, the Andalusian side suffered a heavy loss at home to struggling Levante. The visitors established a lead with a well-worked move before adding two more goals in the second period to complete a convincing victory.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid face major must-win when they welcome Betis, after their rivals increased their lead at the top. Later on other game, Atleti make the journey to face La Real.
Turning to Ligue 1, a landmark Parisian clasico is scheduled as the newly-promoted side visit powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain. The fixture represents the first top-flight meeting between the neighbors in over 36 years, adding extra intrigue to the weekend's action.
