Super Sub Politano Shines as Napoli Overcomes AC Milan to Soar Past Them into Second Place

Both teams were aware that only a win would offer a glimmer of hope in the pursuit of league leaders Inter, which led to a cautious start from these so-called ‘best-of-the-rest’ sides.

The first real opportunity arose when Vanja Milinkovic-Savic rushed out for a Milan free-kick delivery but could only watch as Strahinja Pavlovic’s header drifted wide.

Leonardo Spinazzola then provided a threat for the hosts with his signature move, cutting inside and unleashing a curling shot that skimmed just past the top corner, leaving Mike Maignan standing still.

The first half saw limited action, but the second half presented a more open game.

Napoli was the dominant force, with Giovane’s fierce shot turned away by Maignan, while Milan struggled to create any serious threats.

The introduction of Alisson Santos seemed to energise the hosts, contributing to Frank Anguissa’s header being comfortably saved by the Milan keeper.

Ultimately, it was a Napoli substitute who proved decisive. Just five minutes after entering the fray, Politano seized on a weak clearance from Koni De Winter at the back post and sent a powerful volley low into the net.

Milan’s attack finally sparked to life, yet efforts from substitutes Santiago Gimenez and Rafael Leao fell short, leaving them with a disappointing journey back from Campania.

This result means Napoli has closed the gap to seven points behind Inter, but will not have the chance to challenge the Nerazzurri in the remaining seven fixtures.

They leapfrog Milan, who suffer just their second away defeat this season, thus missing the opportunity to secure a league double over Napoli for the first time since the 2010/11 season.