Gli Azzurri Edge The Biancocelesti in Fiery Clash With Three Dismissals
Early efforts from Leonardo Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani secured a two-goal victory for Napoli at Lazio in a fixture marred by multiple sendings-off.
The win propels Napoli to just one point behind of Serie A leaders Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter occupy third place but can return to the summit with a win in their later fixture.
Dominance Despite Injury Woes
Hampered by the absence of several injured personnel, Napoli commanded the game with patient attacks. The opener came when Politano's delivery was volleyed home by the wing-back at the back post.
The advantage was extended in the 32nd minute as the defender guided a glancing header from a Politano free-kick into the net. Napoli went close to a third shortly after when Eljif Elmas saw his header rattle against the woodwork.
Flashpoints and Dismissals
After the break brought further worry for the away side when a player limped off. The stoppage sparked a brief confrontation, leading to bookings for Rrahmani and Lazio's Tijjani Noslin—who subsequently received a second caution for a foul.
"My compliments to my players, performing with this level of technical ability and intensity without letting Lazio play is not easy," remarked the triumphant manager. "Our performance was at a very high level of play."
Tempers boiled over again near the end as two opponents became involved in a fierce exchange, requiring the manager to step in. Both individuals were dismissed for their involvement in the incident.
Other European Action
Over in La Liga, Sevilla endured a heavy loss at home to struggling the Granotas. The visitors established a lead with a fine move before adding two more goals in the second half to complete a convincing win.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos face major pressure when they welcome Betis, after their rivals extended their lead at the summit. Later on late game, Atleti travel to face La Real.
In France, a landmark Parisian clasico takes place as the newly-promoted side visit powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain. This match marks the first top-flight meeting between the two clubs in decades, adding extra spice to the weekend's action.
