Napoli fought back twice to secure a 2-2 draw against Roma in a pulsating Serie A clash at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Sunday.
The result leaves defending champions SSC Napoli 11 points behind leaders Inter Milan and three adrift of second-placed AC Milan, who still have a game in hand. Napoli remain third, three points ahead of AS Roma and four clear of Juventus.
Malen Strikes Twice
Roma made a bright start and took the lead in the seventh minute. On-loan forward Donyell Malen smashed home at the near post after a low delivery from fellow winter signing Bryan Zaragoza.
Napoli levelled just before halftime when Leonardo Spinazzola rifled in a powerful strike from outside the box against his former club.
Roma regained the advantage in the 71st minute after Wesley França was brought down in the area. Malen calmly converted from the penalty spot, firing high to the goalkeeper’s left for his fifth goal in five Serie A appearances.
Santos Rescues Napoli
Napoli refused to fold and found their equaliser in the 82nd minute through substitute Alisson Santos. The Brazilian midfielder created space on the edge of the area before drilling a low shot inside the near post to secure a valuable point.
The draw marks Napoli’s second home stalemate in five days, following their midweek Coppa Italia exit on penalties after a 1-1 draw with Como.
While the result slows their pursuit of the Milan clubs at the top, Napoli stay firmly in the Champions League places as the Serie A title race intensifies.
