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Napoli Beats Juventus to Create Genuine Serie A Title Race

Napoli Beats Juventus to Create Genuine Serie A Title Race
Napoli Beats Juventus to Create Genuine Serie A Title Race

Juventus thought it had done enough to all but secure another Serie A title, however Napoli managed to blow the title race wide open with a priceless late victory in Turin.

Maurizio Sarri’s charges arrived at Sunday’s match four points behind the defending champions, in the knowledge that only a victory would realistically keep their title hopes alive, Marca reported.

Massimiliano Allegri has been the subject of intense speculation throughout the week over his future, and the Italian coach appeared to set his team up in a cautious manner on Sunday.

The intention was to remain defensively solid and frustrate a vibrant Napoli side, however thee efforts were dealt a serious blow when Giorgio Chiellini was forced off through injury after less than 10 minutes of play.

Napoli dominated much of the match and retained possession, but just could not find the final pass to break down a resolute Juventus defense.

Lorenzo Insigne and Jose Callejon were frustrated by a lack of support from those around them, with Gianluigi Buffon only really having to deal with half-chances over the course of the match.

Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain were barely involved as the hosts only really looked to hold onto the draw.

A deflected free-kick struck Pepe Reina’s far post in the first half, suggesting that fortune was indeed on the side of Sarri’s team.

With Buffon keeping Callejon and Piotr Zielinski at bay, the decisive moment was to come in the 89th minute of play.

The Spaniard delivered a perfect corner into the middle of the penalty area with Kalidou Koulibaly powering a header into the Juventus net.

Wild celebrations ensued at the full time whistle, with the dramatic result leaving Juventus just one point clear of its rival with four matches left to play.

The title is still in the Bianconeri’s hands, but it must be remembered that they face an incredibly difficult task when they travel to Milan to face Inter in the Derby d’Italia on Saturday.

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