Napoli Edge Lazio in Tempestuous Clash With Three Sendings-Off
First-half strikes from Spinazzola and Rrahmani secured a 2-0 triumph for the visitors at the Stadio Olimpico in a fixture marred by a trio of red cards.
The win pushes Conte's side to within a single point of Serie A leaders AC Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter hold third place but can return to the summit with a victory in their later fixture.
Control Amid Absences
Hampered by the absence of several injured players, the southern Italian side controlled the proceedings with measured build-up play. The first goal arrived when Politano's delivery was drilled home by Spinazzola at the back post.
The lead was extended in the first half as the defender powered a header from another Politano set-piece into the bottom corner. They came close to a third shortly after when Elmas saw his effort crash against the woodwork.
Flashpoints and Red Cards
After the break saw further worry for the away side when a winger limped off. The stoppage sparked a brief altercation, leading to bookings for a Napoli defender and Lazio's Tijjani Noslin—who then received a second yellow for a challenge.
"My compliments to the lads, performing with such a high standard of technical ability and intensity without letting the opposition have control is not easy," remarked the winning manager. "We played at a very high level of quality."
Tempers boiled over again late on as players from both sides became involved in a fierce confrontation, requiring the coach to step in. Both individuals were shown red cards for their involvement in the clash.
Elsewhere European Fixtures
Over in La Liga, Sevilla suffered a heavy loss at home to lowly Levante. Levante established a lead with a well-worked move before scoring two more goals in the second period to complete a comprehensive win.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid host significant must-win when they play Betis, after their arch-rivals extended their lead at the summit. Later on other game, Atlético Madrid travel to face Real Sociedad.
Turning to Ligue 1, a historic Parisian clasico takes place as Paris FC visit powerhouses PSG. This match marks the inaugural top-flight meeting between the neighbors in over 36 years, bringing significant spice to the weekend's action.
