Inter Milan missed the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of Serie A as Scott McTominay scored twice to earn Napoli a hard-fought draw in a match that also saw Antonio Conte sent off.
Inter made a fast start and took the lead in the ninth minute when Federico Dimarco collected Marcus Thuram’s pass and rifled a shot home from a tight angle.
The early breakthrough appeared to put the hosts in control, but Napoli responded well and drew level midway through the first half. Eljif Elmas slipped a pass into the path of McTominay, who surged into the penalty area and finished at the near post to make it 1-1.
The game remained finely balanced until the closing stages, when Inter regained the advantage in the 73rd minute. Hakan Calhanoglu converted a powerful penalty, striking the ball in off the post as goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic dived the wrong way.
The spot-kick was awarded after Amir Rrahmani was adjudged to have fouled Henrikh Mkhitaryan in the area, a decision that provoked an angry reaction from Conte, who was subsequently dismissed from the touchline.
Despite being without their head coach, Napoli refused to relent and were rewarded nine minutes from time.
McTominay struck a superb first-time finish into the bottom corner to complete his brace and restore parity, denying Inter what would have been a crucial victory in the title race.
The result leaves Inter three points clear of city rivals Milan at the top of the table, while Napoli move up to third, level on points with Roma.
Cristian Chivu’s side will have the chance to strengthen their position when they host Lecce on Wednesday evening.
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