Napoli’s Serie A title defence is all but over after a 2-0 home loss to Lazio, leaving them 12 points behind leaders Inter Milan with five games left
NAPOLI’S Serie A title defence is effectively over after a 2-0 home defeat to Lazio. The loss leaves the reigning champions 12 points behind leaders Inter Milan with just five matches remaining.
Matteo Cancellieri’s early tap-in set the tone at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Toma Basic sealed the win for ninth-placed Lazio with another simple finish in the 57th minute.
“We had 70% of the possession but didn’t have a single shot on target,” said a disappointed Napoli coach Antonio Conte. He was also tight-lipped about rumours linking him with the Italy national team job.
Napoli could officially concede the title next weekend if they fail to beat Cremonese and Inter win at Torino. The defeat leaves Napoli counting the days until the Scudetto returns to Milan.
Lazio’s performance was a positive sign ahead of their Italian Cup semi-final second leg against Atalanta. That tie is delicately poised at 2-2 ahead of Wednesday’s match in Bergamo.
Napoli’s Champions League qualification remains on track despite the title race ending. They hold an eight-point lead over fifth-placed Como and Roma, who drew 1-1 with Atalanta.
“We know we’re not already in the Champions League, there are five matches left,” said Napoli’s Matteo Politano. He also apologised for what he called a “horrible performance” against Lazio.
Roma’s draw with Atalanta was overshadowed by off-pitch tensions at the capital club. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini has been in open conflict with senior advisor Claudio Ranieri.
Gasperini hinted at his frustrations after the match, referencing his successful past at Atalanta. “My successes at Atalanta were down to a club which was in sync with the coach,” he said.
The result gives Juventus a chance to strengthen their grip on a Champions League spot. Juve, in fourth, host Bologna on Sunday knowing a win would extend their advantage over the chasing pack.
