Genoa took the lead with a spectacular Ekhator heel-flick, but the Italian champions rallied in the second half. Injury concerns arise for Lobotka and Politano, with the latter forced to miss national team duties due to muscle problems.
Napoli displayed two distinct performances: a sluggish and underwhelming first half, followed by a gritty and determined transformation in the second. Kevin De Bruyne`s introduction energized the attack, paving the way for the comeback. Genoa, after dominating for 50 minutes and taking the lead with a brilliant Ekhator heel-flick, couldn`t contain Napoli`s resurgence. A tactical shift to a 4-1-4-1 formation saw Napoli overturn the deficit with goals from Anguissa and Hojlund, reclaiming the top spot in the league, sharing it with Roma. These three crucial points, secured just before the international break, solidify the team`s position at the summit.
Genoa`s Initial Illusion
Despite a promising start from Napoli, with Hojlund and Politano coming close to scoring in the first eleven minutes, the team lost momentum. Genoa capitalized, taking control of the game and securing the lead with Norton-Cuffy`s superb play down the right flank, culminating in Ekhator`s stunning heel-flick goal.
Napoli`s Comeback
Napoli suffered injuries to Lobotka and Politano, but the second-half introductions of De Bruyne and Spinazzola revitalized the team. The equalizer came in the 13th minute with a powerful header from Anguissa, following a play initiated by Milinkovic and Spinazzola. The Azzurri intensified their pressure, and although a Hojlund goal was disallowed for offside and Di Lorenzo hit the post, the decisive goal was imminent. In the 30th minute, after an exceptional save by Leali from Anguissa, Hojlund scored the winning goal with a fierce tap-in, completing a formidable week with three crucial goals. Napoli, having found their true striker, ends the match at the top of the league before the break, showcasing a fighting spirit and Conte`s unwavering commitment to always seeking victory.
