Gli Azzurri Overcome Lazio in Tempestuous Encounter Featuring Three Sendings-Off
First-half strikes from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani earned a win for the visitors at the Stadio Olimpico in a match marred by a trio of red cards.
This result moves Conte's side to just one point behind of Serie A pace-setters Milan, who won on Friday. Inter Milan occupy third place but have a chance to go back to the top with a win in their evening match.
Control Despite Injury Woes
Hampered by the absence of a number of injured personnel, the southern Italian side controlled the game with measured build-up play. The first goal arrived when Matteo Politano's cross was drilled home by Spinazzola at the far post.
The lead was doubled in the 32nd minute as the defender guided a glancing header from another Politano free-kick into the bottom corner. They went close to a third goal shortly after when Eljif Elmas watched his header rattle against the crossbar.
Flashpoints and Dismissals
After the break saw more worry for the away side when a winger was forced off. The stoppage sparked a brief altercation, leading to bookings for a Napoli defender and the home side's Tijjani Noslin—who then was shown a second caution for a challenge.
"My compliments to the lads, performing with such a high standard of technical ability and intensity while preventing Lazio have control is not easy," remarked the triumphant manager. "Our performance was at a exceptional level of quality."
Tempers flared again late on as two opponents became involved in a fierce exchange, prompting the coach to intervene. Both individuals were sent off for their involvement in the incident.
Elsewhere Continental Action
In Spain's La Liga, the Andalusian side endured a 3-0 defeat at home to lowly the Granotas. Levante established a lead with a well-worked team goal before scoring two more strikes in the second half to complete a convincing victory.
In other news, Real Madrid host significant pressure when they welcome Betis, after their arch-rivals increased their advantage at the summit. Later on late match, Atlético Madrid make the journey to face Real Sociedad.
In France, a landmark capital derby is scheduled as the newly-promoted side face powerhouses PSG. The fixture marks the first top-flight meeting between the neighbors in decades, bringing extra spice to the weekend's action.
