Genoa 1-2 Napoli: Meret the hero as Partenopei reclaim top spot after hard-fought win over hosts

Goals from Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Amir Rrahmani in the first half propelled Napoli to the top of the Serie A standings following their 2-1 victory against Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris.

Aiming for their third consecutive away win for the first time since November 2023, Napoli nearly took the lead within the first five minutes when Romelu Lukaku’s header struck the underside of the crossbar, narrowly missing the goal.

In response, a crucial interception by Rrahmani thwarted Vitinha’s attempt to score.

The opening goal arrived shortly thereafter, as David Neres delivered a precise cross into the box, which Anguissa headed in to give Napoli a 15th-minute advantage.

Genoa's situation deteriorated eight minutes later when Rrahmani scored his first goal of the season, heading in from Stanislav Lobotka’s inswinging corner, thereby establishing Napoli's dominance.

Before halftime, Scott McTominay had a goal disallowed for offside, which would have capped an impressive first half for Antonio Conte’s side.

Desperate for improvement in the second half, Genoa managed to reduce the deficit within six minutes. Vitinha’s impressive play set up top-scorer Andrea Pinamonti, who skillfully placed the ball past Alex Meret into the far corner.

Milan Badelj’s powerful header soon tested Napoli’s goalkeeper, as the hosts pressed for an equalizer.

Despite the sustained pressure, including a shot from substitute Mario Balotelli that struck the post, Genoa could not find the back of the net. Napoli's fourth win in their last five league matches positions them favorably to remain at the top of the Serie A table, contingent upon Atalanta's performance against Empoli tomorrow.

Genoa, on the other hand, remains two points clear of the relegation zone after once again failing to secure their first home win of the season, recording six draws and four losses.

SportsLigue