Napoli Edge Lazio in Heated Clash With Multiple Red Cards
Goals before the break from Spinazzola and Rrahmani delivered a win for Napoli at Lazio in a fixture marred by multiple sendings-off.
Three points propels Conte's side to just one point behind of Italian league pace-setters AC Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter Milan hold third place but can return to the top with a victory in their later match.
Control Despite Absences
Despite missing a number of key personnel, the southern Italian side commanded the game with measured attacks. The first goal came when Matteo Politano's cross was drilled home by Spinazzola at the far post.
The advantage was extended in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani guided a glancing header from another Politano free-kick into the bottom corner. They came close to a third goal shortly after when Elmas watched his effort crash against the crossbar.
Tempers Flare and Red Cards
The second half saw further injury concern for the visitors when a player limped off. The stoppage sparked a short altercation, resulting in bookings for Rrahmani and the home side's Tijjani Noslin—who subsequently was shown a second yellow for a challenge.
"I must congratulate my players, playing with this level of quality and physical strength without letting the opposition play is difficult," stated the winning manager. "Our performance was at a very high level of play."
Tensions flared again late on as two opponents became involved in a heated exchange, requiring the coach to intervene. The two players were shown red cards for their involvement in the incident.
Elsewhere European Fixtures
Over in La Liga, Sevilla endured a 3-0 defeat at home to lowly Levante. The visitors took control with a well-worked team goal before adding two further goals in the second period to seal a comprehensive victory.
In other news, Real Madrid host major pressure when they welcome Real Betis, after their rivals increased their advantage at the top. Later on other game, Atlético Madrid travel to face Real Sociedad.
In France, a historic capital clasico takes place as Paris FC face giants PSG. This match marks the inaugural top-flight meeting between the neighbors in decades, adding extra intrigue to the weekend's action.
