European round-up: Napoli move three points clear in Serie A after Lecce win

Serie A champions Napoli moved three points clear at the top of the table after a hard-fought 1-0 away win over Lecce.

Antonio Conte’s side gave themselves breathing space at the summit courtesy of Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa’s powerful header on 69 minutes at Stadio Via del Mare.

But the visitors also had goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic to thank after he saved a second-half Lecce penalty with the scores level. It was the Serb’s fifth spot-kick save of the past nine penalties he has faced in Serie A.

The gap at the top was confirmed after AC Milan were held to a 1-1 draw at unbeaten Atalanta later in the day, while Roma, who dropped down to third due to Rossoneri’s result, host Parma on Wednesday.

“These games are never easy, especially after a match like the one with Inter [on Saturday] that used up so much energy,” Conte told DAZN Italia.

“We played against a very good team, it is always tough to play here in Lecce. I think we should’ve controlled the final stages better, even if we didn’t run many big risks. Mentality is first and foremost.

“It was a very good first half, then this penalty could’ve changed the course of the game, but our goalkeeper did well and we went on to deserve the victory.”

Striker Rasmus Hojlund made his return as a substitute after several weeks out injured, while midfielder Scott McTominay also came off the bench.

However, Conte will be without Kevin De Bruyne, who is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after injuring his thigh when scoring against Inter at the weekend.

The Belgian joins compatriot Romelu Lukaku on Napoli’s growing absentee list.

And Conte was in no mood to back down in his assessment of his side’s injury problems.

“People forget that we are having to make do,” said Conte. “People talk about these big reinforcements, now some even try to suggest we are benefiting from the injuries to Lukaku and De Bruyne. It’s completely absurd.

“There’s a lot of talk, but in the end, you have to stay quiet, because in the end things prove right those who have a longer vision compared to those who just talk and pass judgment.”

Napoli are next in action when they host Como on Saturday.