The Partenopei Edge The Biancocelesti in Tempestuous Encounter Featuring Three Dismissals
Goals before the break from Spinazzola and Amir Rrahmani earned a win for the visitors at Lazio in a fixture overshadowed by three dismissals.
Three points moves Conte's side to within a single point of Serie A pace-setters Milan, who prevailed on Friday. Inter Milan hold third place but can return to the top with a victory in their evening fixture.
Dominance Amid Absences
Despite missing a number of key personnel, the southern Italian side commanded the proceedings with patient build-up play. The opener arrived when Politano's delivery was drilled home by the wing-back at the far post.
The advantage was extended in the 32nd minute as the defender guided a header from another Politano set-piece into the bottom corner. They went close to a third shortly after when Eljif Elmas watched his effort rattle against the woodwork.
Flashpoints and Red Cards
After the break saw further worry for the visitors when a winger was forced off. The stoppage triggered a short altercation, leading to yellow cards for Rrahmani and the home side's Tijjani Noslin—who subsequently was shown a second caution for a challenge.
"My compliments to the lads, playing with such a high standard of technical ability and physical strength while preventing Lazio play is not easy," stated the winning head coach. "We played at a very high level of play."
Tempers boiled over again near the end as players from both sides were embroiled in a heated exchange, requiring the coach to step in. Both individuals were sent off for their involvement in the incident.
Other Continental Action
Over in La Liga, the Andalusian side endured a heavy loss at home to lowly the Granotas. The visitors took control with a fine team goal before scoring two further goals in the second half to complete a comprehensive victory.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid host major pressure when they play Betis, after their rivals increased their advantage at the top. In the day's other game, Atleti make the journey to face Real Sociedad.
Turning to Ligue 1, a historic capital derby takes place as the newly-promoted side face giants PSG. The fixture represents the inaugural top-flight encounter between the two clubs in decades, bringing significant spice to the occasion.