After a ferocious first half, it took a 72nd-minute goal from Sulley Muntari to decide the game in the home side's favour.

Jose Mourinho prevailed in the much-anticipated battle of two former Chelsea coaches against Claudio Ranieri and saw his side cement their place on top of the table.

The match also saw Adriano recalled to Mourinho's starting line-up after the Brazil frontman had been omitted from the squad for five matches due to a disciplinary matter.

Earlier in the day, Fiorentina produced a fantastic second-half comeback to beat Udinese 4-2 in an action-packed encounter at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

The Bianconeri had taken a first-half lead through Antonio Floro Flores before Adrian Mutu levelled from the penalty spot early in the second period.

Riccardo Montolivo scored a brace before Alberto Gilardino made it 4-1 for the hosts. Antonio Di Natale pulled a late goal back from the penalty spot after Gianluca Comotto was dismissed.