![Adem Ljajic scored a brace in Fiorentina’s 4-1 victory over Inter at the Stadio Artemio Franchi last night. Adem Ljajic scored a brace in Fiorentina’s 4-1 victory over Inter at the Stadio Artemio Franchi last night.]()
Napoli’s hopes of closing the gap on Juventus at the top of the Serie A to two points were dashed yesterday following an under-par performance in 0-0 draw at home to Sampdoria.
With leaders Juve losing 1-0 at Roma on Saturday, second-placed Napoli were looking to up the pressure on their Turin rivals and bounce back after a 3-0 Europa League defeat at the San Paolo against Viktoria Plzen on Thursday.
The game was preceded by a minute’s silence to remember former Napoli player Carmelo Imbriani, who died of cancer on Friday at 37.
Juventus still remain within touching distance, albeit four rather than two points away, with the two sides meeting at the San Paolo in March.
Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri did not speak to the press afterwards but sporting director Riccardo Bigon said this was because of illness.
“We remain convinced that we have our future in our hands.
“We created plenty of chances against Sampdoria, we’re still optimistic about our chances in this title race,” Bigon said.
“Mazzarri? He’s not well. He’s got a 38-degree temperature, he’s gone home to get some rest.”
Sampdoria coach Delio Rossi was serving a touchline ban following an altercation with Roma players last...