Roma 2-1 Napoli: Hosts win tight encounter

Within the context of Italian football, Roma and Napoli have always been viewed as two of the biggest dogs in the yard. Over the course of the last few years the two sides have been on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, enduring great spells of success to coincide with plenty of frustration. In the end, though, during this affair, it was Roma who managed to get the upper hand as they secured a huge three points in Serie A.

Upping the tempo

Throughout the game both teams tussled for control of the game but couldn’t quite edge themselves into a significant advantage. Napoli clearly took the possession side of things, but their finishing wasn’t quite up to scratch by comparison. Alas, it was still a fun encounter regardless of the finishing, with both teams showcasing why they’re amongst the best of the best in Italy.

The first goal came through Zaniolo just 19 minutes into the game with Roma immediately getting their tails up. They were in a great position to maintain their advantage, as you’d probably expect, and they held out magnificently throughout the remainder of the first half. They were able to soak up the pressure and really frustrate the visitors all over the pitch.

Getting it done

Just ten minutes into the second half Roma were able to double their advantage, with Veretout scoring from the penalty spot. It appeared as if the hosts were just going to go through the motions until victory was confirmed, until Milik pulled one back with less than 20 minutes remaining. The momentum of the game shifted ever so slightly, but Roma were still able to hold on – despite Cetin being sent off deep into stoppage time courtesy of receiving a second yellow card.

Roma’s attention will now turn towards the Europa League as they prepare for a trip to take on Borussia Monchengladbach, prior to another away day in the league – this time at Parma. Napoli, on the other hand, will host RB Salzburg in what should be an absolute cracker of a Champions League tie. They’ll then return to domestic football against Genoa as they attempt to push back up into the top six after falling into seventh, with Roma now being up in third.

Match Report

Roma: Lopez (6.5), Kolarov (7), Smalling (7), Cetin (4.5), Spinazzola (7.5), Veretout (7.5), Mancini (7), Kluivert (6.5), Pastore (7), Zaniolo (8), Dzeko (7), Under (6), Santon (6), Perotti (6.5)

Napoli: Meret (7.5), Lorenzo (6.5), Manolas (6), Koulibaly (6.5), Rui (6), Callejon (5.5), Ruiz (6.5), Zielinski (7), Insigne (6.5), Milik (7), Mertens (6.5), Llorente (6), Lozano (7), Younes (6)

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Goals: Zaniolo, Veretout pen :: Milik

Yellow Cards: Cetin x2, Spinazzola, Kluivert, Under, Milik, Lorenzo, Rui

Red Cards: Cetin