Napoli Hold Off The Biancocelesti in Heated Clash Featuring Multiple Red Cards
Early efforts from Spinazzola and Rrahmani secured a 2-0 triumph for the visitors at the Stadio Olimpico in a match overshadowed by a trio of red cards.
Three points moves Napoli to just one point behind of Italian league leaders AC Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter hold third place but have a chance to go back to the summit with a win in their evening fixture.
Dominance Amid Absences
Hampered by the absence of several key personnel, the southern Italian side controlled the proceedings with measured build-up play. The first goal arrived when Matteo Politano's delivery was volleyed home by the wing-back at the far post.
The advantage was extended in the 32nd minute as the defender guided a glancing header from another Politano set-piece into the bottom corner. They went close to a third shortly after when Elmas saw his effort crash against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Red Cards
After the break brought further worry for the away side when a winger was forced off. The stoppage triggered a brief altercation, leading to yellow cards for a Napoli defender and Lazio's Noslin—who then was shown a second yellow for a foul.
"My compliments to the lads, performing with this level of quality and intensity while preventing Lazio play is difficult," remarked the winning manager. "We played at a very high level of quality."
Tensions flared again late on as two opponents became involved in a fierce confrontation, prompting the manager to intervene. Both individuals were shown red cards for their part in the clash.
Elsewhere Continental Action
Over in La Liga, Sevilla endured a 3-0 defeat at home to lowly the Granotas. Levante took control with a fine move before adding two further strikes in the second half to complete a comprehensive win.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid host major must-win when they welcome Betis, after their arch-rivals increased their advantage at the summit. In the day's other game, Atleti travel to face Real Sociedad.
Turning to Ligue 1, a historic capital derby takes place as the newly-promoted side visit giants PSG. This match represents the inaugural top-flight meeting between the two clubs in over 36 years, bringing extra spice to the weekend's action.
