Gli Azzurri Hold Off Lazio in Heated Contest With Multiple Red Cards
Early efforts from Leonardo Spinazzola and Rrahmani secured a 2-0 triumph for Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in a match marred by three dismissals.
The win moves Conte's side to just one point behind of Serie A leaders AC Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter Milan occupy third place but can return to the top with a win in their evening fixture.
Dominance Despite Injury Woes
Despite missing several injured players, Napoli controlled the game with patient attacks. The opener arrived when Politano's delivery was volleyed home by the wing-back at the far post.
The lead was doubled in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani guided a glancing header from a Politano set-piece into the bottom corner. Napoli went close to a third shortly after when Elmas saw his effort rattle against the woodwork.
Tempers Flare and Dismissals
After the break brought more worry for the away side when a winger was forced off. The stoppage sparked a short altercation, leading to yellow cards for Rrahmani and Lazio's Noslin—who then was shown a second yellow for a foul.
"My compliments to the lads, performing with this level of quality and physical strength while preventing the opposition have control is difficult," stated the triumphant manager. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of play."
Tempers flared again near the end as two opponents were embroiled in a fierce exchange, requiring the manager to step in. The two players were shown red cards for their part in the clash.
Elsewhere Continental Action
Over in La Liga, the Andalusian side suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to struggling the Granotas. Levante established a lead with a well-worked move before adding two more goals in the second half to seal a comprehensive victory.
In other news, Los Blancos face major pressure when they welcome Betis, after their rivals extended their advantage at the top. In the day's other match, Atlético Madrid make the journey to face Real Sociedad.
In France, a landmark capital derby takes place as Paris FC visit powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain. The fixture marks the first top-flight meeting between the neighbors in decades, bringing significant intrigue to the weekend's action.
