Napoli Overcome The Biancocelesti in Tempestuous Contest Featuring Three Dismissals
First-half strikes from Leonardo Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani earned a two-goal victory for the visitors at the Stadio Olimpico in a match marred by a trio of red cards.
The win propels Conte's side to within a single point of Italian league pace-setters Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter Milan hold third place but have a chance to go back to the summit with a victory in their later match.
Dominance Amid Absences
Despite missing several injured personnel, the southern Italian side controlled the proceedings with measured build-up play. The opener came when Matteo Politano's delivery was drilled home by the wing-back at the far post.
The advantage was doubled in the first half as Rrahmani powered a header from a Politano free-kick into the net. They went close to a third shortly after when Elmas watched his effort crash against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Dismissals
The second half brought further injury concern for the away side when a player limped off. This incident sparked a short altercation, leading to bookings for Rrahmani and Lazio's Tijjani Noslin—who then received a second caution for a challenge.
"I must congratulate the lads, playing with such a high standard of technical ability and physical strength without letting the opposition have control is not easy," stated the winning manager. "Our performance was at a very high level of play."
Tensions boiled over again late on as two opponents became involved in a fierce confrontation, prompting the manager to step in. Both individuals were shown red cards for their involvement in the incident.
Other European Fixtures
Over in La Liga, the Andalusian side endured a heavy loss at home to lowly the Granotas. Levante took control with a fine move before adding two more strikes in the second half to complete a convincing win.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos face major must-win when they play Real Betis, after their arch-rivals extended their advantage at the top. In the day's other game, Atleti travel to face La Real.
In France, a historic Parisian derby is scheduled as the newly-promoted side face powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain. The fixture represents the first top-flight meeting between the neighbors in over 36 years, bringing extra intrigue to the weekend's action.
