January 22, (THEWILL) – Napoli secured a 2-0 victory over Salernitana on Saturday, moving them 12 points clear of second-placed Milan ahead of their match against Lazio on Tuesday. It was further proof of their title credentials.
Once again, Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen entered his name in the scoresheet with the serving goal to continue his fine form in front of goal for his 13th of the season. The result made Napoli just the third team to reach 50 points in the first half of a Serie A season, after Juventus (in 2013-14 and 2018-19) and Inter (in 2006-07).
Interestingly, no side has ever failed to win Serie A after reaching a half-century of points at this campaign stage. Head coach Luciano Spalletti knows Napoli has an incredible opportunity to claim their first league title since 1990.
Speaking after the victory Spalletti said: “We know that we have an unprecedented opportunity. We must not squander the possibilities we have. We must remain humble and do things professionally.”
Napoli had to remain patient before making the breakthrough in Salerno, recording their lowest shot tally in the first half of a Serie A match (two) since February 2021 (one versus Atalanta). However, they were good value for their victory after Giovanni Di Lorenzo hammered home on the stroke of half-time.
It is a good turn-off for the I Partenopei and the response from the team, despite pre-season exits of key players including Kalidou Koulibaly, Fabian Ruiz, Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens, tells of their incredible mentality. More such displays will mean they can be positive about lifting the Scudetto at the end of the season.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
