Roma Fight Back From 2-0 Down to Draw 3-3 at Napoli

Napoli took a two-goal lead but missed chances to extend it

Frank Zambo Anguissa gave Napoli the lead in the 28th minute, volleying home with an overhead kick after Roma could not clear Matteo Politano’s cross. The hosts kept creating openings up to the break, yet Pierluigi Gollini produced several saves that kept Roma within a goal. Bryan Cristante also hit the woodwork for the visitors.

Three minutes after the restart, McTominay doubled Napoli’s advantage. Politano whipped in a cross from the right, and the midfielder got into the space at the far post. Gollini got a touch on the header but was unable to keep it out. Napoli went on to have chances that could have settled the match, but Roma made three substitutions together in the 59th minute.

Roma’s changes sparked a quick fightback

Matias Soule pulled one back in the 69th minute, finishing a move that involved Donyell Malen. Five minutes later, a Roma effort deflected off Leonardo Balerdi, and the defender was quickest to react to the loose ball, drilling it in from close range. Both goals came as Roma pressed harder after the triple change.

Roma enjoyed 60.6 per cent of the possession and took 24 shots to Napoli’s 15. Napoli were sharper in front of goal, putting nine efforts on target to Roma’s four. That gap is why the home side stayed a threat even while the visitors had most of the ball.

McTominay put Napoli back ahead, but Balerdi equalised again

McTominay sent Napoli 3-2 up in the 83rd minute. Receiving the ball outside the packed middle of the box, he placed a low shot into the gap that was open. Roma kept pushing forward, and Wesley’s cross in the 89th minute found Balerdi unmarked at the far post, giving the defender his second goal.

Massimiliano Allegri was shown a red card during a tense final stretch. Napoli threw away the win: they failed to finish the chances that came after their 2-0 lead, then let crosses into dangerous areas following both Roma comebacks. Gollini’s saves, the crossbar and Roma’s stronger bench kept the game alive long enough for Balerdi to capitalise on the last defensive lapse.