The Partenopei Hold Off Lazio in Tempestuous Contest Featuring Three Dismissals
Early efforts from Leonardo Spinazzola and Rrahmani delivered a 2-0 triumph for Napoli at Lazio in a fixture marred by a trio of red cards.
The win moves Napoli to within a single point of Serie A pace-setters AC Milan, who won on Friday. Inter Milan occupy third place but can return to the summit with a victory in their evening fixture.
Control Amid Absences
Hampered by the absence of several key players, the southern Italian side commanded the proceedings with patient attacks. The opener came when Politano's delivery was drilled home by the wing-back at the back post.
The advantage was extended in the first half as the defender powered a header from a Politano free-kick into the net. They came close to a third shortly after when Eljif Elmas saw his header rattle against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Red Cards
After the break brought further worry for the visitors when a winger limped off. This incident triggered a brief confrontation, resulting in bookings for a Napoli defender and Lazio's Tijjani Noslin—who then received a second caution for a challenge.
"I must congratulate the lads, playing with this level of technical ability and physical strength without letting the opposition play is difficult," remarked the triumphant head coach. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of quality."
Tempers flared again near the end as players from both sides became involved in a heated exchange, requiring the manager to intervene. The two players were shown red cards for their involvement in the clash.
Other Continental Action
Over in La Liga, the Andalusian side endured a heavy loss at home to lowly the Granotas. The visitors took control with a fine move before scoring two more goals in the second half to seal a convincing win.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid face major must-win when they play Betis, after their arch-rivals extended their advantage at the top. Later on other game, Atleti make the journey to face Real Sociedad.
Turning to Ligue 1, a landmark Parisian clasico takes place as the newly-promoted side visit giants PSG. This match marks the inaugural top-flight meeting between the neighbors in over 36 years, bringing extra intrigue to the occasion.
