Lazio put in a solid display at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday evening to complete the double over rivals Roma for the first time since 2012 in the Derby della Capitale. Mattia Zaccagni scored the only goal of the match to secure an important victory towards the Biancocelesti’s Champions League football aspirations.
They were without Ciro Immobile in the starting lineup who was left on the bench and still nursing an injury. However, Felipe Anderson put in a decent performance in a false nine role in his absence. Tensions would spill over throughout the contest as the derby delivered a real battle, with both sides receiving red cards. So here are our Lazio player ratings, including a star performance by Zaccagni in their 1-0 triumph over Roma.
Lazio: (4-3-3)
Ivan Provedel – 7
Struggled with the flu pre-match but managed to make the lineup and did well whenever called upon. However, was rarely needed due to the poor offensive display by the Giallorossi. Still made a few stops.
Adam Marusic – 7
Sent off for violent conduct late on but was otherwise solid. Accurate in possession and wasn’t troubled defensively throughout.
Nicolo Casale – 7.5
Was close to scoring an own goal that would have handed Roma an undeserved equalizer but was fortunately ruled out for offside in the build-up. Helped in possession and played a number of successful long balls, strong at the back.
Alessio Romagnoli – 7
The Lazio defense was rarely pressured all game, allowing the hosts to dominate the play. Comfortable playing out from the back but perhaps could have done better in his duels.
Elseid Hysaj – 7
Wasn’t afraid to attack the Roma defense down the left-hand side and linked-up well with Zaccagni, particularly in the first half.
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic – 6.5
It was a silly challenge by Roger Ibanez for his second yellow card but the Serbian midfielder did win the foul and celebrated the dismissal after. Hasn’t been at his best of late and didn’t pose too much of a threat here but didn’t really put a foot wrong either.
Danilo Cataldi – 7
Misplaced just two of his passes all evening and was excellent at the base of the Lazio midfield
Luis Alberto – 8
Booked midway through the first half for a late challenge on Nicola Zalewski but was influential from the midfield for Lazio, looking to create from deep. Created a few chances for himself that worried Roma ‘keeper Rui Patricio and completed the most passes in the match.
Pedro – 7
Wasn’t as influential as Zaccagni over on the opposite flank but battled well as ever and put in a strong display. The 35-year-old continues to perform at the top level.
Felipe Anderson – 7.5
Looked sharp early on and quick on the turn. Drew a foul which led to a Ibanez yellow after less than ten minutes of play. Showed good skill and composure in the box too but lacked power in his strike in the first half. Was creative for Maurizio Sarri’s side.
Mattia Zaccagni – 9
Put Lazio in front in the Derby della Capitale with a composed finish into the far corner, finally beating Patricio who had been excellent for Roma. Was the main threat down the left flank, linking up well with Elseid Hysaj. Excellent display. Worthy of a call-up to the Azzurri?