Napoli Hold Off Lazio in Heated Clash With Three Dismissals
Goals before the break from Leonardo Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani secured a two-goal victory for Napoli at Lazio in a fixture marred by multiple sendings-off.
Three points pushes Conte's side to just one point behind of Italian league leaders AC Milan, who won on Friday. Inter occupy third place but can return to the summit with a victory in their later match.
Control Amid Absences
Despite missing a number of injured players, Napoli commanded the proceedings with measured attacks. The opener came when Politano's cross was volleyed home by Spinazzola at the back post.
The lead was doubled in the 32nd minute as the defender powered a glancing header from a Politano free-kick into the net. They came close to a third goal shortly after when Eljif Elmas watched his header crash against the woodwork.
Flashpoints and Red Cards
After the break brought further worry for the visitors when a player limped off. This incident triggered a brief altercation, leading to bookings for a Napoli defender and the home side's Noslin—who subsequently was shown a second yellow for a foul.
"I must congratulate the lads, performing with such a high standard of quality and intensity without letting Lazio play is difficult," remarked the winning manager. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of play."
Tempers boiled over again near the end as players from both sides were embroiled in a fierce exchange, requiring the manager to intervene. Both individuals were shown red cards for their part in the clash.
Other European Action
Over in La Liga, Sevilla endured a heavy loss at home to struggling the Granotas. Levante took control with a fine team goal before scoring two further goals in the second period to complete a comprehensive win.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid face significant must-win when they play Betis, after their arch-rivals increased their advantage at the top. In the day's other match, Atlético Madrid make the journey to face Real Sociedad.
In France, a landmark capital derby is scheduled as the newly-promoted side visit giants PSG. The fixture marks the first top-flight meeting between the two clubs in over 36 years, bringing significant spice to the occasion.
