Napoli extended their lead at the top of Serie A to 18 points with a convincing 2-0 victory over Atalanta, thanks to goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Amir Rrahmani.
Kvaratskhelia, who has been in outstanding form since joining Napoli at the start of the season, scored his 11th goal in Serie A with a brilliant solo effort in the 60th minute.
The Georgian forward received a pass from Victor Osimhen, danced past Atalanta captain Rafael Toloi with some dazzling footwork, and unleashed a powerful shot that left the opposition goalkeeper no chance.
Rrahmani sealed the win for Napoli in the 77th minute with a towering header from a corner kick by Eljif Elmas. It was a commanding performance by the center-back, who helped keep Atalanta’s potent attack at bay.
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Despite missing their regular goalkeeper Alex Meret due to injury, Napoli dominated the first half, with Matteo Politano and Kvaratskhelia going close to scoring.
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Osimhen also had a good chance but headed wide from Politano’s cross.
Atalanta came back strongly in the second half, with Duvan Zapata and Luis Muriel threatening to score, but Napoli’s on-loan goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini made some crucial saves to keep a clean sheet against his parent club.
The win was a statement of intent by Napoli, who bounced back from their defeat to Lazio last week and showed why they are the team to beat in Serie A this season.
Kvaratskhelia’s goal was a moment of individual brilliance that highlighted his immense talent and potential, and his contribution to the team’s success cannot be overstated.
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