Gli Azzurri Hold Off Lazio in Fiery Encounter With Three Dismissals
Early efforts from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani secured a two-goal victory for Napoli at Lazio in a match overshadowed by a trio of red cards.
Three points moves Conte's side to just one point behind of Italian league pace-setters Milan, who won on Friday. Inter Milan occupy third place but can return to the summit with a victory in their evening match.
Control Despite Injury Woes
Despite missing several key personnel, the southern Italian side commanded the game with patient attacks. The opener came when Politano's delivery was drilled home by the wing-back at the far post.
The advantage was extended in the 32nd minute as the defender guided a header from another Politano free-kick into the net. Napoli came close to a third goal shortly after when Elmas watched his effort crash against the woodwork.
Flashpoints and Dismissals
After the break saw further injury concern for the away side when a winger limped off. The stoppage triggered a brief altercation, leading to yellow cards for a Napoli defender and the home side's Noslin—who subsequently was shown a second caution for a challenge.
"I must congratulate the lads, performing with this level of technical ability and intensity without letting the opposition play is difficult," remarked the triumphant manager. "We played at a exceptional level of play."
Tensions boiled over again near the end as two opponents became involved in a heated confrontation, prompting the manager to step in. Both individuals were shown red cards for their part in the incident.
Other Continental Action
In Spain's La Liga, the Andalusian side endured a 3-0 defeat at home to lowly Levante. Levante took control with a fine team goal before adding two further goals in the second half to seal a convincing win.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos face major must-win when they welcome Betis, after their arch-rivals increased their lead at the summit. In the day's late match, Atlético Madrid make the journey to face La Real.
Turning to Ligue 1, a landmark capital derby is scheduled as the newly-promoted side visit giants PSG. The fixture represents the inaugural top-flight meeting between the two clubs in over 36 years, bringing significant spice to the weekend's action.
