Rasmus Hojlund’s goal completed a Napoli comeback as the Italian champions beat winless Genoa 2-1 to return to the top of Serie A.
Hojlund pounced on a rebound in the penalty area with 15 minutes left to score his fourth goal for the club since his summer move from Manchester United.
Genoa made the most of a rare foray in the 33rd minute when Jeff Ekhator silenced the home fans with a superb backheel finish, before Frank Anguissa headed Napoli level 12 minutes into the second half when he reacted quickest to a loose ball in the penalty area.
Napoli manager Antonio Conte omitted Kevin de Bruyne from his starting XI, and his side struggled to break down Genoa’s back six despite enjoying 72% possession in the first half.
Napoli’s frustrations were compounded by midfield lynchpin Stanislav Lobotka and winger Matteo Politano limping off with injuries either side of half-time.
De Bruyne replaced Politano early in the second half and had a near-immediate impact – his attempt to reach Leonardo Spinazzola’s cross caused such panic in the Genoa defence that Anguissa was left free to score.
Minutes after he was denied a goal because De Bruyne was offside, Hojlund was on hand to strike when Anguissa’s effort was parried into danger by Genoa goalkeeper Nicola Leali.
Victory sends Napoli top of the table on goal difference, level with Roma on 15 points.
Patrick Vieira’s Genoa remain in the relegation zone with two points and no wins after six games.
After the international break Napoli travel to Turin to face Torino on Saturday, 18 October (17:00 BST), while Genoa host Parma on Sunday, 19 October (14:00).
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