Napoli fans were given a late reason to celebrate on Saturday as Philip Billing snatched a dramatic equalizer in a thrilling 1-1 draw against Inter Milan at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
The 32-year-old Danish midfielder, who is still getting used to the Mediterranean sunshine after swapping Bournemouth for Naples in January, tapped in his first goal for the club just three minutes from time. And what a time to do it! His persistence—after Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez initially denied him—ensured that Napoli remain just one point behind league leaders Inter in the Serie A title race.
For a while, it looked like Federico Dimarco’s stunning 22nd-minute free-kick would be enough to hand Inter a crucial win. Simone Inzaghi’s men defended like their lives depended on it, throwing bodies, boots, and possibly kitchen sinks at Napoli’s relentless attacks. But in the end, Napoli found a way through—thanks to Billing, who wasted no time making himself a fan favorite.
Inzaghi, meanwhile, might be experiencing a case of déjà vu. His team, which ran riot in Serie A last season, now seems to have developed an allergy to winning big matches. February was supposed to be the month Inter tightened their grip on the title, but with just three points from their last four games, they’re suddenly looking a little shaky.
Billing’s late strike also gave a helping hand to Atalanta, who, despite playing at home, couldn’t find a way past Venezia. Gian Piero Gasperini’s men have now gone five straight home games without a win, and at this rate, their fans might start petitioning to have the club’s fixtures moved to neutral venues.
Ademola Lookman had chances to make a difference but seemed to have misplaced his shooting boots. First, he fluffed a one-on-one with Venezia’s Ionut Radu, then later sent a golden opportunity into orbit—possibly hoping NASA would track it down. Davide Zappacosta hit the post, and Mateo Retegui also missed chances, leaving Atalanta frustrated and Venezia grateful for an unexpected point in their relegation battle.
For now, the Serie A title race remains a nail-biter, with Napoli keeping Inter on their toes. As for Billing, he might just want to start practicing his goal celebrations—Napoli fans will be hoping to see more of them soon!
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