#napoli

#napoli

Napoli's title defense continues to falter. After being held by Hellas Verona and salvaging a point against Inter, the Partenopei were frustrated again in midweek, drawing 0-0 with Parma despite dominating possession and creating chances. Conte, suspended and watching from the stands, saw his side fail to convert opportunities-a recurring theme in recent weeks. That result allowed Inter to extend their lead, leaving Napoli vulnerable to pressure from below.

Talking about the match, [it was] two strong teams who did everything to win. There's disappointment for having taken the lead twice, but it's not easy against a strong team. Credit must be given to our opponents, who did everything to equalise and then also to win. I take home the attitude and the desire to always go forward, perhaps sometimes overdoing it.

Napoli dominated the ball early on and saw Eljif Elmas' near-post attempt smothered by visiting captain Lorenzo Montipo, but by the 27th minute, the champions were 2-0 down. Martin Frese met Cheikh Niasse's centre with an inventive backheel to put Verona ahead in the 16th minute, then Gift Orban - who had been heavily involved in the opening goal - stroked home from the penalty spot after Alessandro Buongiorno was penalised for handball.

Napoli have been heavily linked with a loan move for Real Madrid midfielder Franco Mastantuono, but Madrid have closed the door on any departure, according to Marca. Mastantuono, 18, only moved from River Plate for €45 million in the summer and has already become Los Blancos' second-youngest debutant in the Champions League and their fourth youngest goal-scorer in LaLiga history. Napoli had been enquiring about a loan deal as they seek midfield reinforcements, but their interest was quickly quashed before any concrete offer was made.