The Partenopei Edge The Biancocelesti in Tempestuous Contest With Three Sendings-Off
Early efforts from Leonardo Spinazzola and Rrahmani earned a 2-0 triumph for the visitors at the Stadio Olimpico in a match overshadowed by three dismissals.
The win moves Conte's side to just one point behind of Serie A leaders AC Milan, who won on Friday. Inter occupy third place but can return to the top with a win in their later match.
Control Despite Absences
Despite missing a number of injured personnel, Napoli controlled the proceedings with measured attacks. The first goal arrived when Matteo Politano's cross was drilled home by Spinazzola at the back post.
The lead was doubled in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani powered a header from a Politano set-piece into the net. Napoli came close to a third shortly after when Eljif Elmas saw his effort crash against the woodwork.
Tempers Flare and Dismissals
After the break brought more injury concern for the visitors when a winger was forced off. This incident triggered a short altercation, 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.
"I must congratulate the lads, playing with this level of quality and physical strength without letting the opposition play is difficult," remarked the triumphant head coach. "We played at a very high level of play."
Tempers flared again late on as two opponents became involved in a fierce confrontation, requiring the coach to intervene. The two players were dismissed for their part in the clash.
Other Continental Fixtures
Over in La Liga, the Andalusian side suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to lowly Levante. The visitors established a lead with a fine team goal before scoring two further strikes in the second period to seal a convincing victory.
In other news, Los Blancos face significant pressure when they welcome Betis, after their arch-rivals extended their advantage at the summit. Later on late match, Atleti make the journey to face La Real.
Turning to Ligue 1, a landmark capital clasico takes place as the newly-promoted side visit powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain. This match represents the inaugural top-flight encounter between the two clubs in over 36 years, bringing extra intrigue to the weekend's action.
