Lazio’s Champions League fate hung in the balance tonight as group leaders Feyenoord travelled to the eternal city. The Rome derby was in the back of everyone’s mind as Maurizio Sarri insisted this wasn’t a must win game but it definitely felt like one for both sides. Big moments need big players and after rounding the keeper coolly Ciro Immobile keeps the dream alive with his 200th Lazio goal. A defensive showing followed as the Biancocelesti settled into a low block and just about resisted everything the Dutch side threw at them. Here’s how Maurizio Sarri’s men got on in their first big game of the week.
Ivan Provedel – 6.5
Good save to deny early on and had to be alert to any half chances, which he was. Especially right at the death from a header that could’ve been a defining moment.
Manuel Lazzari – 6.5
Complimented Felipe Anderson very well in the first half by sticking to the touchline to give Anderson the chance to drift infield. Solid at the back in a good all round performance.
Alessio Romagnoli – 6.5
Wasn’t afraid to come out of his back four line to cut out any brewing attacks. Himself and Patric worked together nicely. Was very obviously the leader of the defence and kept things under control.
Patric – 6
A little negligent at times, leaving space for attackers and on one ocassion a man free at a corner. He got away with it and started to pick up the pace. Cut out crosses and could find the pass out of the danger zone.
Elseid Hysaj – 6
Tried to assist Immobile’s mission up front but the quality was lacking in his passes. Dashed forward often. His experience defensively came to the fore in the second period.
Luis Alberto – 5.5
Flicks and tricks didn’t always come off and an unusual amount of unsure passes in the first half didn’t help. Lazio’s defensive showing after the break severely limited his opportunities to create. Went down with what might have been cramp later on. This will he a slight worry ahead of the Derby.
Daichi Kamada – 6
Kamada was probably the Biancocelesti’s best passer of the ball throughout. Provided Immobile with clever passes through the gaps. Brought off within ten minutes of the restart.
Matias Vecino – 5
A supporting role in the midfield. Still got through work but didn’t impose himself. Was booked and will miss the next game against Celtic.
Felipe Anderson – 6
The winger was positive early on and he tried to fashion some crosses but they weren’t to the feet of his fellow attackers. The assist for the only goal seemed decond nature to him, a gentle chip over the back line.
Ciro Immobile – 7
Lazio’s talisman turned up when it mattered most once again. His 200th goal for the club and one that may go a long way in extending Lazio’s campaign beyond Christmas. A calm confident finish when off balance after rounding the keeper. Brought off to rest after the hour. Keeps the dream alive.
Mattia Zaccagni – 4.5
Had a mishap within the first 15 minutes. Went over awkwardly after getting his studs stuck in the turf. This seemed to affect his performance as he struggled to make inrodes into Feyenoord territory. He came off with the knee strapped.
Substitutes:
Matteo Guendouzi – 6.5
As a more physical alternative in midfield he left his mark on proceedings. Drifting out wide he endeavoured to find the wingers and strikers. His fresh legs were very useful as the Aquile withstood the Dutch onslaught.
Pedro – 5.5
His 100th appearence in Lazio colours. In the 63rd minute he was deployed to ferry balls away from the defence to give his teammates respite.
Taty Castellanos – 5.5
Wasn’t the best game for strikers as chances were few and far between. Joined the defensive effort but there really wasn’t much work for the Argentine.
Nicolo Rovella – N/A
Luca Pellegrini – N/A