The Partenopei Overcome The Biancocelesti in Fiery Encounter Featuring Three Dismissals
Goals before the break from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani delivered a two-goal victory for the visitors at Lazio in a fixture overshadowed by multiple sendings-off.
Three points moves Conte's side to just one point behind of Serie A leaders AC 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 Absences
Despite missing several injured players, the southern Italian side commanded the proceedings with patient build-up play. The opener arrived when Matteo Politano's delivery was volleyed home by the wing-back at the back post.
The lead was doubled in the 32nd minute as the defender powered a header from another Politano free-kick into the net. They went close to a third shortly after when Elmas saw his effort crash against the crossbar.
Flashpoints and Red Cards
After the break brought more injury concern for the away side when a player limped off. This incident triggered a brief altercation, resulting in yellow cards for a Napoli defender and Lazio's Noslin—who subsequently was shown a second yellow for a challenge.
"My compliments to my players, performing with such a high standard of technical ability and intensity without letting Lazio have control is difficult," remarked the winning manager. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of quality."
Tensions boiled over again late on as two opponents were embroiled in a fierce exchange, requiring the coach to intervene. The two players were shown red cards for their part in the clash.
Elsewhere European Action
In Spain's La Liga, Sevilla suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to struggling Levante. Levante established a lead with a fine team goal before scoring two more strikes in the second period to complete a comprehensive victory.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos host major must-win when they play Real Betis, after their rivals extended their lead at the top. In the day's late match, Atleti travel to face La Real.
Turning to Ligue 1, a historic capital derby takes place as Paris FC visit powerhouses PSG. The fixture represents the inaugural top-flight encounter between the two clubs in over 36 years, adding significant spice to the occasion.