At the Castellani in Empoli, Napoli emerged victorious by 0-1 thanks to a penalty converted by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. A Serie A match that proved to be intense and hard-fought, in which the guests had to fight against a well-organized Empoli determined to get points in front of their fans.
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The match started with a good pace from Empoli, who in the first minutes put Antonio Conte's team in difficulty with aggressive pressing and a series of dangerous actions. Napoli, on the other hand, struggled to find fluidity in the maneuver, suffering the initiative of the home team. In the 13th minute, a cross from Gyasi from the right caused concern for the Neapolitan defense, but Caprile was ready to reject Pezzella's conclusion.
The game remained 0-0 until midway through the second half, when the episode that decided the match arrived in the 61st minute: a shot by Simeone was blocked in the area, and Politano pounced on the rebound, being brought down by Gyasi. Referee Abisso had no doubts and awarded the penalty. Kvaratskhelia was impeccable from eleven meters, disorienting goalkeeper Vasquez with coolness to give Napoli the lead.
Kvara penalty, Napoli keeps the lead and takes home the three points
After the goal, Empoli tried to react, but Napoli's defense, led by Rrahmani and Buongiorno, was able to resist the opponent's attacks. It is worth mentioning an important opportunity for Empoli in the 56th minute, when a low cross from Fazzini dangerously crossed the Napoli penalty area without finding any winning deflections.
In the final minutes, David Neres almost closed the match with a spectacular individual action, but his shot was blocked by the defense. In the final minutes, Napoli suffered the pressure of Empoli, but managed to manage the advantage until the final whistle, despite the injury of Politano, forced to leave the field in the 86th minute to make room for Mazzocchi.
With this victory, the Napoli consolidates its position at the top of the championship even at the end of this matchday, while Empoli leaves the field with their heads held high, despite the defeat, once again showing good defensive organization and the ability to create danger.
Article published on 20 October 2024 - 14:26
The match was fought until the end, with good performances from both teams.