Napoli 1-1 Torino: Champions suffer another blow in race for Champions League qualification

Napoli had to settle for a 1-1 draw at home to Torino on Friday after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's goal was cancelled out by substitute Antonio Sanabria's overhead kick in Serie A.

Napoli, the reigning champions, are seventh with 44 points, seven behind fourth-place Bologna, and their chances of qualifying for the Champions League are fading.

Kvaratskhelia scored his tenth league goal of the season in the 61st minute, expertly guiding home a cross from Mario Rui after missing several opportunities earlier in the game.

However, three minutes later, Sanabria equalised with a bicycle kick, despite goalkeeper Alex Meret's efforts.

It was a frustrating night for the hosts, particularly their lively forward Kvaratskhelia, who had several opportunities to secure his team's third consecutive win.

He came close to breaking the deadlock early in the first half when he found space inside the box, but Vanja Milinkovic-Savic made an outstanding save to deny the Georgian.

Just before the break, Milinkovic-Savic made a diving save on the line to stop Kvaratskhelia's header.

Napoli dominated possession, but Torino defended well, and Kvaratskhelia was denied again in stoppage time when Milinkovic-Savic tipped his attempt over.

Torino, who were without suspended coach Ivan Juric, are 10th with 38 points.

SportsLigue