Lazio vs Roma 1-0: Zaccagni Strengthens Biancocelesti European Hopes

Lazio would walk away from the Stadio Olimpico with the bragging rights in a brawling Derby della Capitale as Mattia Zaccagni scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Roma. A Roger Ibanez red card early on would make life difficult for the Giallorossi who struggled to create throughout the match. 

Ibanez Off Early Doors

It was an animated Olimpico on Sunday night that saw players and coaches alike get involved in various scuffles throughout the feisty encounter. However, it was a poor first forty five minutes of football in the capital which was hampered by the frequent stops in play due to poor challenges and tussles breaking out. 

Georginio Wijnaldum had Roma’s first chance of the match when he struck from range. He caught it well but the effort was always rising over the bar. Lazio soon attacked down their favored left flank and Felipe Anderson found himself in a good position inside the box as a result. He controlled the ball well but his shot lacked venom as Rui Patricio made a comfortable stop. 

Tensions were rising at the Olimpico as players on both sides started to put in a few more stronger challenges. Roma would soon be reduced to ten men after a wild tackle by Ibanez on Sergej Milinkovic-Savic to stop the hosts’ counter-attack. A huge roar from the Biancocelesti crowd burst out as the defender was sent in for an early bath. 

Zaccagni Lights Up Olimpico

Luis Alberto would force Patricio into tipping the ball over the bar for a corner after the restart with a fierce strike as the Spaniard threatened the visitors. The home side would pile on the pressure as the second half progressed and Roma sat even deeper after being reduced to ten men, inviting the Lazio attacks. 

The Giallorossi goalkeeper would be called into action twice more, first to keep out Pedro who had been slipped in behind by Felipe Anderson, before denying the Brazilian himself following the resulting corner. Although, the second opportunity was later flagged for offside. 

However, despite Patricio keeping the Biancocelesti at bay for over an hour, he could do nothing to stop Zaccagni who finished excellently into the bottom right corner. It was a deserved goal for Lazio who had continued to push for the opener in the second half. 

Giallorossi Fight Back In Vein

The visitors thought they had levelled the scores soon after when Nicolo Casale turned the ball home into his own net following a dangerous free kick. Ivan Provedel would originally make a fine stop but Chris Smalling’s involvement was crucial as he was flagged for offside. 

Roma also worked the ball well in around the box with around 15 minutes to go as Leonardo Spinazzola found the ball over on the left flank. His floated cross called Provedel into action to keep his side ahead.

Nevertheless, Roma ultimately struggled and Lazio would pick up a deserved three points that could prove crucial to their top four chances. Adam Marusic and Bryan Cristante would both be sent off late on as the fiery battle continued after the final whistle. 

MATCH SCORECARD

March 19, 2023 – Serie A 2022-23 Round 27

LAZIO – ROMA 1-0

SCORERS: 65′ Zaccagni (L)