Serie A strugglers Venezia frustrated title contenders Napoli in a 0-0 draw at Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo on Sunday.

Napoli knew a victory would take them top of the standings ahead of Inter facing Atalanta later in the day.

Yet Antonio Conte's team could not get the job done and instead had to settle for a point, giving Inter the chance to move three clear at the top, while Atalanta would draw level with the Azzurri with a victory.

Both sides had opportunities to score in a frantic opening spell, with Napoli's Giacomo Raspadori hitting the post while Venezia forward Daniel Fila fired straight at visiting goalkeeper Alex Meret from a promising position.

Napoli began to exert control over the contest as the first half wore on and Venezia stopper Ionut Radu had to be alert to keep out efforts from Raspadori, Romelu Lukaku and Scott McTominay.

The home side almost scored against the run of play in the 42nd minute, but Fila's low shot was prevented from crossing the line by Amir Rrahmani's brilliant last-ditch block.

Napoli upped the pressure after the interval, with Matteo Politano twice drawing saves from Radu, though Venezia almost grabbed a winner in stoppage time, with Nicolussi Caviglia's powerful effort from the edge of the box saved by Meret.

Venezia, who have not won in the league since beating Cagliari 2-1 in December, remain in 19th place in the table on 20 points, five adrift of safety.

Data Debrief: Draws proving costly for Napoli

Napoli have now drawn five of their last seven league games, after having won seven of their previous seven. Their only win in this run came last time out, against Fiorentina, and Conte will be hoping for a change in fortunes after the international break.

Venezia, meanwhile, have drawn four games in a row in Serie A for the first time since March-April 1962 (a streak of four) - though they need wins if they are to get themselves away from danger.

They are one of two teams, together with Empoli, still chasing a 2025 Serie A victory; overall, the Venetians have not won in 12 games (D7 L5).

Venezia had Radu to thank, with their goalkeeper making seven saves, with Napoli creating chances worth 1.54 expected goals to the hosts' 0.73.