Napoli's Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, right, celebrates scoring during the Serie A soccer match between Genoa and Napoli at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium in Genoa, Italy. AP
Frank Anguissa and Amir Rrahmani scored Napoli's goals in an eight-minute spell in the first half before Andrea Pinamonti cut the deficit early in the second period.
Genoa were on top for large parts of the remainder of the game with Mario Balotelli squandering a great opportunity to equalise in the 85th minute.
"In another situation we would be crying bitter tears," said Napoli coach Antonio Conte.
"It's right that the boys enjoy the three points but at the same time understand that the games must be played from start to finish, always trying to keep the foot on the accelerator.
"In the second half I didn't like anything, absolutely."
Napoli have 38 points, one ahead of Atalanta who can reclaim pole position on Sunday when they hunt an 11th successive win at home to Empoli.
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