Serie A: Napoli maintain lead at the top with narrow win vs Lecce, Milan held by Atalanta

Serie A leaders Napoli claimed a 1-0 win against Lecce last night to maintain their lead at the top.

The absence of Kevin De Bruyne and Rasmus Hojlund was palpable as Napoli struggled in the final third despite dominating possession.

Napoli were nearly put on the back foot after Juan Jesus conceded a penalty at the start of the second half.

However, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic saved Napoli’s blushes by stopping Francesco Camarda’s effort.

Frank Anguissa broke the deadlock with his deflected header off David Neres’ free kick.

He is the league’s second-highest scorer with four goals, just behind Bologna’s Riccardo Orsolini (5).

Following back-to-back disappointing losses against Torino and PSV Eindhoven, Antonio Conte’s side are up and running again with two wins on the trot.

They have extended their lead to three points at the summit of Serie A.

Elsewhere, AC Milan drew 1-1 with Atalanta. The Rossoneri have dropped points for the second straight game after the disappointing 2-2 draw against Pisa.

Samuele Ricci scored his first-ever Milan goal inside four minutes, but Atalanta equalised through Ademola Lookman’s fiery left-footed strike.

The Rossoneri’s scoring issues continued as both Rafael Leao and Santiago Gimenez were taken off in the second half because of injuries.

Substitute Christopher Nkunku failed to make an impact, as his struggles in the Italian top flight continued.

Massimiliano Allegri’s side had a great chance to close the gap with Napoli, but they are now trailing by three points in second place.

Roma can now leapfrog Milan if they secure a win or draw against Parma today. Inter Milan also have a chance to draw level with Milan if they beat Fiorentina.