Serie A: Napoli edge Empoli 1-0 to retain top spot

Napoli secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Empoli, maintaining their position at the top of the Serie A table.

A penalty from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the second half was enough to break the deadlock and hand the visitors the win.

Empoli started brightly, with Sebastiano Esposito forcing an early save from Napoli’s goalkeeper Elia Caprile.

Despite their early pressure, Empoli couldn’t capitalize on their chances.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia converted Napoli’s only goal from the spot – Getty image

Napoli eventually found their breakthrough after substitute Giovanni Simeone made an immediate impact, winning a penalty after Matteo Politano was fouled.

Kvaratskhelia calmly converted from the spot, securing the first goal Empoli had conceded at home this season.

Empoli continued to push but couldn’t find the equalizer, with Scott McTominay even coming close to add to Napoli’s tally, but his shot was just over the bar.

The result leaves Napoli strongly in control at the top of the Italian top-flight.