Romelu Lukaku propelled Napoli to a six-point lead at the top of Serie A, scoring the crucial goal in their exhilarating 3-2 victory over title contenders Atalanta. Meanwhile, Juventus secured a spot in the Champions League positions with a 2-0 win against AC Milan.
Belgian striker Lukaku headed in his eighth goal for Napoli from Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa’s flawless cross in the 78th minute, securing a statement victory for Antonio Conte’s team in Bergamo.
Matteo Politano and Scott McTominay also scored for Napoli, which now boasts 50 points from 21 matches. With their efficient performance, scoring three goals from their only shots on target, they have firmly established themselves as the team to beat in this year’s title race.
“I can’t say whether it’s my most important goal (for Napoli), but the win is important. We showed tonight that we’re a top team,” said Lukaku to Sky.
Napoli is aiming for a second Scudetto in three seasons and is eagerly awaiting the outcome of the match between champions and closest rivals Inter Milan. Inter Milan also have a game in hand against struggling Empoli today.
Securing a sixth consecutive victory gives Napoli the ideal momentum as they prepare to face Conte’s former team, Juventus, in Naples next week.
“It’s another test for us to see where we are,” added Lukaku.
“It’s easy after a win like tonight’s to get slack and not keep going. We can’t do that and must continue playing the way we’re playing.”
Lukaku delivered a setback to Atalanta’s remarkable title pursuit, ending their unbeaten league run since late September.
Juventus Celebrates Victory
Samuel Mbangula and Timothy Weah netted goals within five minutes in the second half, securing a well-earned victory for Juventus in Turin. This triumph elevated Thiago Motta’s team to fourth place, one point ahead of Lazio, who are playing against Verona today.
Undefeated Juve ended a streak of three consecutive draws, bringing their total league stalemates to 13. Yesterday’s victory marked only their eighth win in 21 matches in Italy’s top division.
In the 64th minute, substitute Weah mirrored his father by scoring in a Juventus match against Milan, 25 years after Ballon d’Or winner George Weah achieved the same feat for Milan against Juve.
“The boys are growing, match after match, and getting to the point that they can perform like the one they did tonight,” said Motta.
“That’s because they all work hard daily… today’s win is the reward.”
Milan holds the eighth spot, trailing the top four by six points. They still have a match against Bologna, postponed due to flooding in October, with rescheduling yet to be confirmed.
Watch the Atalanta vs. Napoli Extended Highlights below;
