Hyundai driver Neuville won only one of Friday's five stages, but the defending rally winner clocked a series of consistent times to lead 2011 Acropolis conqueror Ogier by 2.8s.
Championship and overnight rally leader Kalle Rovanpera managed to limit the damage of starting first on the road to end Friday third, 25.5s adrift, with Toyota title rival Elfyn Evans a further 5.5s back in fourth.
