The Partenopei Overcome Lazio in Fiery Encounter With Three Red Cards
Goals before the break from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani earned a win for Napoli at Lazio in a fixture marred by a trio of red cards.
This result propels Conte's side to just one point behind of Italian league leaders Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter Milan hold third place but can return to the top with a win in their later match.
Control Despite Injury Woes
Despite missing several key personnel, Napoli commanded the game with patient attacks. The first goal came when Politano's cross was drilled home by the wing-back at the back post.
The advantage was doubled in the first half as Rrahmani guided a header from a Politano free-kick into the bottom corner. Napoli came close to a third shortly after when Elmas watched his effort crash against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Dismissals
After the break brought further worry for the away side when a player was forced off. The stoppage triggered a short confrontation, resulting in yellow cards for Rrahmani and the home side's Noslin—who then was shown a second yellow for a challenge.
"I must congratulate my players, playing with such a high standard of technical ability and intensity while preventing the opposition have control is difficult," remarked the triumphant manager. "Our performance was at a very high level of quality."
Tensions flared again late on as two opponents were embroiled in a fierce exchange, requiring the coach to intervene. Both individuals were shown red cards for their involvement in the incident.
Other European Fixtures
Over in La Liga, the Andalusian side endured a 3-0 defeat at home to struggling Levante. The visitors took control with a fine move before scoring two more strikes in the second half to seal a convincing win.
In other news, Los Blancos face significant pressure when they play Real Betis, after their arch-rivals extended their lead at the summit. In the day's other match, Atlético Madrid make the journey to face La Real.
Turning to Ligue 1, a historic capital derby takes place as the newly-promoted side visit giants Paris Saint-Germain. The fixture marks the first top-flight meeting between the two clubs in over 36 years, adding significant spice to the occasion.
