Gli Azzurri Hold Off Lazio in Tempestuous Contest With Multiple Sendings-Off
First-half strikes from Spinazzola and Rrahmani delivered a win for Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in a match overshadowed by a trio of red cards.
Three points propels Conte's side to just one point behind of Italian league pace-setters Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter hold third place but can return to the summit with a victory in their evening fixture.
Control Despite Injury Woes
Despite missing several key players, the southern Italian side controlled the game with measured attacks. The first goal arrived when Politano's cross was drilled home by Spinazzola at the far post.
The lead was doubled in the first half as the defender powered a header from a Politano free-kick into the bottom corner. Napoli went close to a third shortly after when Eljif Elmas watched his effort rattle against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Dismissals
The second half brought further worry for the visitors when a player was forced off. This incident triggered a short confrontation, resulting in yellow cards for a Napoli defender and the home side's Tijjani Noslin—who subsequently was shown a second yellow for a challenge.
"My compliments to the lads, performing with such a high standard of technical ability and intensity while preventing Lazio play is not easy," remarked the winning head coach. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of play."
Tempers boiled over again late on as two opponents were embroiled in a fierce exchange, prompting the manager to step in. The two players were dismissed for their involvement in the clash.
Other Continental Action
Over in La Liga, Sevilla endured a heavy loss at home to lowly Levante. The visitors established a lead with a fine team goal before adding two further goals in the second half to seal a convincing victory.
In other news, Los Blancos face major pressure when they welcome Betis, after their arch-rivals increased their advantage at the top. Later on other game, Atlético Madrid travel to face La Real.
Turning to Ligue 1, a landmark Parisian derby is scheduled as the newly-promoted side visit powerhouses PSG. This match represents the first top-flight encounter between the neighbors in decades, adding extra intrigue to the occasion.