Napoli preserved their unbeaten home record in Serie A after a late goal from debutant Alisson Santos earned a 2 2 draw against Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. The result keeps the reigning champions third in the table and three points ahead of their capital rivals in a tightly contested race for European places.
The Brazilian forward, making his first league appearance since arriving from Sporting, came off the bench and made an instant impact. With eight minutes remaining and Napoli pushing forward in search of an equaliser, Santos unleashed a powerful finish that sent the home crowd into celebration and ensured the hosts walked away with a valuable point.
Roma had looked set to claim a rare away win in Naples thanks to Donyell Malen, who continued his impressive scoring run in Italy. The Dutch striker opened the scoring inside the first ten minutes after a swift counter attack. A defensive challenge from Evan Ndicka sparked the move, and within moments Bryan Zaragoza delivered a low cross that Malen converted with composure.
Napoli responded before halftime through Leonardo Spinazzola. As the hosts probed around the edge of the area, Spinazzola struck a shot that took a slight deflection off Niccolo Pisilli, looping beyond goalkeeper Mile Svilar and leveling the match. The equaliser restored energy inside the stadium and set up a competitive second half.
Roma regained the lead in the 71st minute after Wesley was brought down in the penalty area by Amir Rrahmani. Malen stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, marking his fifth goal in as many games since joining Serie A. The visitors appeared to have seized control, sensing an opportunity to climb further up the standings.
Napoli refused to fade. Managerial adjustments increased attacking intensity, and sustained pressure eventually broke Roma’s resistance. Santos found space near the edge of the box and fired a driven effort that left Svilar with little chance. The strike not only rescued a point but also introduced the new signing to Napoli supporters in memorable fashion.
The draw moves Napoli to 50 points, still trailing leaders Inter but firmly in the Champions League conversation. Roma remain in close pursuit, underlining the competitive nature of the top half of the table this season.
From a fan perspective, the match delivered pace, goals and momentum swings that kept social feeds buzzing throughout the evening. Malen’s scoring streak and Santos’ immediate impact are already talking points as the campaign enters a crucial phase.
