Napoli Hold Off Lazio in Heated Contest With Three Dismissals
First-half strikes from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani delivered a two-goal victory for Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in a match overshadowed by three dismissals.
The win pushes Napoli to within a single point of Serie A pace-setters AC Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter Milan hold third place but have a chance to go back to the summit with a win in their evening match.
Control Despite Injury Woes
Hampered by the absence of several injured personnel, Napoli commanded the proceedings with patient build-up play. The opener came when Politano's cross was drilled home by the wing-back at the far post.
The lead was extended in the first half as the defender powered a header from a Politano set-piece into the net. Napoli came close to a third goal shortly after when Elmas watched his header crash against the woodwork.
Tempers Flare and Red Cards
After the break brought more worry for the away side when a player was forced off. This incident sparked a brief altercation, leading to bookings for a Napoli defender and the home side's Tijjani Noslin—who subsequently was shown a second yellow for a challenge.
"I must congratulate the lads, performing with this level of quality and physical strength without letting the opposition have control is not easy," stated the winning manager. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of play."
Tempers flared again near the end as players from both sides were embroiled in a heated confrontation, prompting the manager to intervene. Both individuals were shown red cards for their part in the clash.
Other Continental Fixtures
Over in La Liga, the Andalusian side endured a heavy loss at home to lowly the Granotas. Levante established a lead with a fine move before adding two further strikes in the second period to seal a convincing victory.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid face significant must-win when they welcome Betis, after their rivals increased their advantage at the summit. Later on other game, Atleti travel to face La Real.
In France, a landmark capital clasico is scheduled as Paris FC visit giants Paris Saint-Germain. The fixture represents the inaugural top-flight encounter between the two clubs in decades, adding extra spice to the occasion.
