Napoli Edge Lazio in Fiery Contest With Three Red Cards
First-half strikes from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani secured a two-goal victory for Napoli at Lazio in a match overshadowed by multiple sendings-off.
This result moves Napoli to just one point behind of Serie A leaders AC Milan, who won on Friday. Inter Milan occupy third place but can return to the summit with a win in their evening fixture.
Dominance Amid Absences
Hampered by the absence of a number of injured players, the southern Italian side controlled the game with patient build-up play. The first goal came when Politano's cross was volleyed home by the wing-back at the back post.
The lead was extended in the 32nd minute as Rrahmani powered a header from another Politano free-kick into the bottom corner. They came close to a third goal shortly after when Elmas saw his effort rattle against the woodwork.
Tempers Flare and Dismissals
After the break brought more worry for the visitors when a winger was forced off. This incident triggered a short confrontation, resulting in bookings for Rrahmani and Lazio's Noslin—who subsequently received a second caution for a challenge.
"I must congratulate my players, performing with such a high standard of quality and physical strength while preventing the opposition play is difficult," remarked the winning manager. "We played at a exceptional level of quality."
Tensions flared again late on as players from both sides were embroiled in a heated exchange, prompting the manager to step in. The two players were shown red cards for their part in the incident.
Other Continental Fixtures
Over in La Liga, Sevilla endured a 3-0 defeat at home to struggling Levante. The visitors established a lead with a well-worked team goal before adding two more strikes in the second half to complete a convincing victory.
In other news, Real Madrid face major must-win when they play Real Betis, after their rivals extended their advantage at the summit. In the day's late match, Atleti travel to face Real Sociedad.
In France, a historic Parisian clasico takes place as Paris FC face powerhouses PSG. The fixture marks the first top-flight encounter between the neighbors in over 36 years, bringing extra intrigue to the weekend's action.