Monza 0-0 Napoli: Meret penalty save rescues point for Champions

Despite their struggles this season, the reigning champions of Serie A entered their match against Monza with the intention of ending 2023 on a positive note. Although Napoli dominated the first half at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, they were unable to take the lead before halftime.

The best opportunity of the opening 45 minutes came to Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, but the former Fulham midfielder's shot was easily saved by goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio.

Monza, who were clearly second-best in the first half, came out after the break determined to prove themselves and came close to scoring through Valentín Carboni's deflected volley from inside the box.

The Biancorossi were then given a chance to break the deadlock from the penalty spot midway through the second half, as referee Marco Di Bello awarded a penalty for Mário Rui's handball inside the area. However, Napoli's blushes were spared as goalkeeper Alex Meret made a low save to deny Matteo Pessina's penalty.

Things went from bad to worse for the frustrated Mazzarri, as he was shown a red card by Di Bello after getting involved in a scuffle between Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Warren Bondo.

This marked yet another disappointing evening for the Napoli manager. The result further distances Napoli from their fellow top-four contenders, leaving the 2022/23 Scudetto winners with a difficult task ahead as they enter 2024.