The Partenopei Overcome Lazio in Heated Contest With Multiple Sendings-Off
Goals before the break from Leonardo Spinazzola and Rrahmani secured a 2-0 triumph for the visitors at the Stadio Olimpico in a fixture marred by three dismissals.
The win pushes Conte's side to just one point behind of Italian league pace-setters Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter hold third place but can return to the top with a victory in their evening fixture.
Dominance Despite Absences
Despite missing several key personnel, the southern Italian side commanded the game with measured build-up play. The opener came when Politano's cross was volleyed home by Spinazzola at the back post.
The lead was extended in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani guided a glancing header from another Politano set-piece into the net. Napoli went close to a third goal shortly after when Elmas watched his effort crash against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Red Cards
The second half brought more worry for the visitors when a player limped off. This incident sparked a short confrontation, resulting in bookings for a Napoli defender and Lazio's Tijjani Noslin—who then was shown a second yellow for a foul.
"My compliments to the lads, performing with this level of quality and physical strength without letting the opposition have control is not easy," remarked the winning manager. "Our performance was at a very high level of quality."
Tensions flared again near the end as players from both sides became involved in a heated exchange, prompting the manager to step in. Both individuals were sent off for their involvement in the incident.
Other Continental Action
In Spain's La Liga, the Andalusian side suffered a heavy loss at home to lowly Levante. Levante took control with a fine team goal before scoring two further goals in the second half to complete a comprehensive win.
In other news, Los Blancos host major pressure when they play Betis, after their arch-rivals increased their lead at the top. In the day's other game, Atlético Madrid travel to face La Real.
In France, a landmark Parisian clasico is scheduled as Paris FC face powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain. This match represents the inaugural top-flight meeting between the two clubs in over 36 years, adding significant spice to the occasion.
