Napoli will remain at the top of Serie A for at least another week after securing a 1-0 win against Empoli on Sunday, extending their lead over Juventus to three points. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 63rd minute, marking his fourth goal of the season. This victory is Napoli’s fourth consecutive win across all competitions.
Despite being the better side for much of the game, Empoli couldn’t prevent Napoli from taking all three points in front of a large contingent of away fans. Notably, Empoli had beaten Napoli both home and away last season, with their victory in Naples last November leading to the sacking of Rudi Garcia, as Napoli’s title defense fell apart, leaving the club in 10th place.
Napoli, now under Antonio Conte, is benefitting from a lighter schedule due to their absence from European competition after a disappointing collapse following their 2023 Scudetto win, the club’s first since 1990. Kvaratskhelia, a key player for Conte, is central to their title challenge, though his future remains uncertain. While his contract runs until 2027, the Georgian star is reportedly seeking an eight-million-euro annual salary, significantly more than Napoli is willing to offer.
Inter Milan could close the gap to two points if they win their match against Roma later in the day.
