Italian leaders Napoli take their 1st loss in Serie A

By Can Erozden

ANKARA (AA) - Inter Milan beat Napoli 1-0 in a Wednesday Italian Serie A match at home as the league leaders have lost for the first time in the local campaign.

Bosnian forward Edin Dzeko scored a firm header in the minute 56 as Federico Dimarco whipped a cross from left flank to connect it with Dzeko's head.

This was the winning goal for Inter at Milan's Giuseppe Meazza Stadium.

In the 89th minute, Napoli forward Giacomo Raspadori's effort in the area was saved by Inter goalkeeper Andre Onana.

Inter won the game 1-0.

Leaders Napoli, who are in a dream season, had their first loss in the league. Inter also ended Napoli's 11-match winning run.

Before the match Inter forward Lautaro Martinez was handed a plaque for helping Argentina win the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The Inter fans greeted him.

In addition, prior to kickoff at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, the crowd applauded Brazilian legend Pele while the players observed a minute's silence on the center circle.

On Dec. 29, a three-time FIFA World Cup winner Pele died at age 82 after losing his fight against colon cancer.

Napoli have 41 points in 16 matches to keep their lead.

Second-place AC Milan increased their points to 36 after a 2-1 victory against Salernitana on Wednesday.

Juventus are third with 34 points as they won against Cremonese 1-0.

Inter moved to the fourth spot after the win. They have 33 points to be after Juventus.