The Partenopei Hold Off Lazio in Heated Contest Featuring Multiple Red Cards
Early efforts from Spinazzola and Rrahmani earned a win for Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in a match marred by multiple sendings-off.
The win propels Conte's side to within a single point of Italian league leaders Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter occupy third place but have a chance to go back to the summit with a victory in their later fixture.
Control Despite Absences
Despite missing several key players, Napoli commanded the proceedings with patient attacks. The first goal came when Politano's delivery was drilled home by Spinazzola at the back post.
The advantage was doubled in the 32nd minute as the defender guided a glancing header from a Politano free-kick into the bottom corner. They went close to a third goal shortly after when Eljif Elmas saw his header rattle against the woodwork.
Tempers Flare and Red Cards
After the break saw further worry for the away side when a winger limped off. The stoppage triggered a brief altercation, resulting in bookings for Rrahmani and the home side's Noslin—who subsequently received a second yellow for a foul.
"I must congratulate my players, performing with such a high standard of quality and physical strength without letting Lazio play is difficult," stated the winning head coach. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of quality."
Tempers boiled over again near the end as players from both sides were embroiled in a heated exchange, prompting the manager to step in. The two players were dismissed for their part in the clash.
Elsewhere European Action
Over in La Liga, Sevilla endured a heavy loss at home to lowly the Granotas. Levante took control with a fine team goal before adding two further strikes in the second period to seal a convincing win.
In other news, Los Blancos face significant must-win when they play Betis, after their rivals extended their lead at the top. Later on late game, Atleti make the journey to face La Real.
In France, a historic Parisian clasico is scheduled as the newly-promoted side face giants PSG. This match marks the inaugural top-flight encounter between the neighbors in over 36 years, adding extra spice to the weekend's action.
