ROME - This week's top-of-the-table clash between Napoli and Inter Milan ended up in a tight 1-1 draw at the San Siro. The draw means that Napoli remain top of the Serie A table with Inter Milan, Fiorentina, Atalanta and Lazio only one point behind.

 Napoli took the lead with a corner in the 23rd minute. The ball bounced between players, before a well-positioned flying scotsman, Scott McTominay, poked the ball into the back of the net, putting the Serie A leaders ahead.

 However, Inter struck back in the 43rd minute. Their goal was thanks to some excellence by Hakan Çalhanoğlu, who turned with the ball about five metres outside the Napoli penalty area, before smashing the ball into the top right hand corner of the goal - an absolute wonder strike which surely will be a tough goal to beat for goal of the season. 

The second half saw both teams striving for a winner, but despite several attempts, neither side could convert their opportunities into goals. Napoli's defense, particularly through Amir Rrahmani, remained solid, while Inter’s players like Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez created chances that Napoli’s keeper Alex Meret handled effectively. 

 However, the chance to win the game did come in Inter's way. Inter were awarded a penalty that goalscorer Hakan Çalhanoğlu stood up to take. He struck the ball powerfully, but just off target, as he looked in despair at his shot forcefully ricocheting off the post - this goal would have put Inter at the top of the table.

 The result has livened up the Serie A title chase with Napoli's lead all but vanished. Any of the top six teams will still believe that they are in the hunt for Serie A glory.

tjpw