Napoli vs. Juventus: 5 Things We Learned from This Pivotal Serie a Match
In a feisty 90-minute affair which ended in a 1-1 tie, Napoli and Juventus didn't do much to assert themselves in a new position in the Serie A. A win for the Bianconeri would've effectively sealed the Scudetto title, while a Napoli triumph would've given them serious hope to mount a surprising comeback to challenge for the title.
Here are the top five things we learned from yet another heart-pumping Italian affair!
Juventus Are Another Team with Giorgio Chiellini
1 of 5The rugged Giorgio Chiellini provides the most toughness at the back for Juventus. During his absence due to injury, the Bianconeri were forced to employ a makeshift defensive three at the back and suffered the consequences by losing a couple of valuable points.
Chiellini's leadership and aerial ability were felt instantly against Napoli, as he soared high to score a thundering header for the 1-0 lead.
Napoli Needs to Keep Hold of Edinson Cavani
2 of 5The Uruguayan hitman was deemed surplus at Palermo, so Napoli took a chance on him right away, and he has increased his value tenfold.
Despite currently undergoing a scoring dry spell in Serie A, El Matador is the main reason why Napoli is in second place this season, as he's the leading goalscorer in the league. After having sold Ezequiel Lavezzi to Paris St-Germain, Napoli cannot afford to lose another world-class talent.
These Two Teams Really Do Not Like Each Other
3 of 5The aggression was on full display today—we witnessed a constant wrestling match between defender Giorgio Chiellini and El Matador Cavani. More on this in the next slide.
Edinson Cavani vs. Giorgio Chiellini Becoming an Incredible Matchup
4 of 5It's quickly becoming one of the best individual matchups in Serie A every time Giorgio Chiellini and Edinson Cavani square off. Tons of illegal tugging, pushing and the occasional cheap shot—today provided no shortage of action, as Chiellini opted on pulling the Uruguayan's hair. As a more painful revenge, Cavani went for an old-fashioned elbow to the head which should have been a clear red card.
Overall, a tantalizing 90 minutes between these two legends.
The Scudetto Isn't Sealed
5 of 5First place in the Serie A is still up for grabs. Juventus has yet to face Inter, Lazio, Milan and a tricky Catania team aiming for a surprise European spot.
11 match days remain for the rest of Serie A to catch up to the mighty Bianconeri, and I have a feeling it'll go down to the wire.
