Gli Azzurri Hold Off The Biancocelesti in Tempestuous Clash With Multiple Red Cards
Goals before the break from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani secured a 2-0 triumph for the visitors at the Stadio Olimpico in a match marred by multiple sendings-off.
Three points propels Napoli to within a single point of Italian league pace-setters AC Milan, who won on Friday. Inter hold third place but have a chance to go back to the summit with a victory in their later match.
Control Despite Absences
Despite missing a number of key players, the southern Italian side controlled the game with measured attacks. The first goal arrived when Politano's cross was volleyed home by Spinazzola at the back post.
The lead was extended in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani powered a glancing header from a Politano free-kick into the net. They went close to a third goal shortly after when Elmas saw his header rattle against the crossbar.
Flashpoints and Red Cards
After the break saw more worry for the visitors when a player was forced off. This incident sparked a short altercation, leading to bookings for Rrahmani and the home side's Tijjani Noslin—who then received a second yellow for a foul.
"I must congratulate the lads, performing with this level of quality and intensity without letting Lazio play is not easy," stated the winning head coach. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of quality."
Tensions flared again late on as two opponents were embroiled in a fierce exchange, requiring the manager to intervene. The two players were shown red cards for their part in the incident.
Elsewhere European Fixtures
Over in La Liga, Sevilla suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to struggling Levante. Levante established a lead with a fine team goal before adding two further goals in the second half to seal a comprehensive win.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos face major pressure when they welcome Real Betis, after their arch-rivals increased their advantage at the summit. Later on late match, Atlético Madrid travel to face La Real.
In France, a landmark capital clasico is scheduled as the newly-promoted side visit powerhouses PSG. This match represents the inaugural top-flight encounter between the neighbors in decades, adding significant spice to the weekend's action.