Napoli maintained their lead at the top of Serie A with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Torino, thanks to a first-half strike from Scott McTominay. The Scottish midfielder’s goal proved to be the difference as Napoli pulled away from their closest rivals, Lazio, who suffered a surprising 3-1 defeat to relegation-battling Parma.
The day’s drama, however, unfolded in the match between Fiorentina and Inter Milan, which was abandoned after Fiorentina midfielder Edoardo Bove collapsed on the pitch. The 22-year-old Italian player was swiftly taken to the hospital, where he is now in a medically induced coma. Initial tests ruled out acute damage to his central and cardio-respiratory systems, and he will be re-evaluated in the next 24 hours.
Napoli now sits four points clear of Atalanta, Inter Milan, Lazio, and Fiorentina, who are all tied on 28 points. Juventus is close behind with 26 points after a last-gasp equalizer by substitute Ante Rebic earned them a 1-1 draw against Lecce.
In other news, Patrick Vieira celebrated his first win as Genoa coach, masterminding a 2-0 victory over Udinese, who played with 10 men for most of the match following an early red card for defender Isaak Touré.
As the season progresses, Napoli will be eager to maintain their slender lead, with several teams hot on their heels. The title race promises to be exciting, with just a few points separating the top contenders.
Italy’s Juventus docked 15 points for transfer deals
MILAN — Juventus have been deducted 15 points for the current season by an Italian soccer court investigating the club’s transfer dealings, leaving the country’s most successful team marooned in mid-table.
Inter Milan game among three postponed over coronavirus in Italy
Rome — Title-chasing Inter Milan’s clash against Sampdoria on Sunday was one of three Serie A football matches postponed over coronavirus fears in northern Italy.
