Napoli host Inter in table-topper clash
milan — Napoli return to domestic action looking for a lift after their European setback with a fascinating top of the table clash at home against Inter Milan in Serie A on Saturday.
Maurizio Sarri’s side have little time to dwell on Tuesday’s 2-1 loss at Manchester City as they focus on a clash that could prove crucial in the Serie A title race.
Napoli are flying high with a perfect 24 points from eight games — two ahead of secondplaced Inter — and a win would give the southerners a five-point cushion on their pursuers.
The clash is between the only two unbeaten sides in Serie A.
“We were defeated on the pitch but not in spirit,” warned Amadou Diawara, who scored his maiden goal for Napoli in Manchester.
“I’m happy with the goal in Manchester. It was pity about the result, but the head is only for Inter now,” the Guinean midfielder continued. “The team showed strength and character. We know it’s difficult but it’s going to be a fascinating title race.
“We will play in San Paulo, in
I’m happy with the goal in Manchester. It was pity about the result but the head is only for Inter now Amadou Diawara
front of our people and the fans will give us a great boost. But we also know that we’re meeting a team in great shape.”
Inter, chasing a first win at the San Paolo stadium in two decades, have fresher legs with no European action midweek and boosted after a Mauro Icardi hattrick lifted them past city rivals AC Milan in the prestigious Derby della Madonnina.
Inter’s former Newcastle defender Davide Santon warned that last Sunday’s derby excitement was already far behind the team and urged “the right ruthlessness.”
Champions Juventus have regained some of their sparkle after recent setbacks with a 2-1 Champions League win against Sporting Lisbon.—