Lazio secured a 2-1 victory over FC Porto in what has been their toughest European challenge so far. The Biancocelesti secured the win with goals from Alessio Romagnoli and Pedro, despite a temporary equalizer from Stephen Eustaquio. The victory not only keeps Lazio at the top of the Europa League standings but also marks their position as the sole leaders of the group.
Under the guidance of coach Marco Baroni, Lazio remain unbeaten in the competition, boasting a five-point lead over the ninth-placed team. Notably, they are the only Italian team with a perfect record in their European campaign this season. Baroni also made history as just the second Lazio manager to win his first four European matches, following Simone Inzaghi.
In terms of lineup, Baroni made eight adjustments from the squad that triumphed in their last Serie A match, bringing in Gigot and Romagnoli to counter Porto’s leading scorer, Samu Omorodion. The match was intense and filled with action; both teams received early yellow cards as they battled for control, with Lazio having several opportunities, including an early chance for Castellanos that was disallowed for offside.
Porto threatened as well, with Fabio Vieira hitting the crossbar and Omorodion causing trouble for Lazio’s defence. However, it was Lazio who struck first just before halftime. A corner taken by Zaccagni was flicked on by Castellanos, allowing Romagnoli to head in his first goal of the season.
In the second half, Lazio continued to press but faced a resilient Porto side that equalized in the 65th minute through Eustaquio after a well-placed cross from Galeno. Despite this setback, Lazio quickly regrouped and maintained their attacking momentum.
The decisive moment came in stoppage time when Pedro found space in the box after a pass from Isaksen, controlling it expertly to score from close range.
Goals: Romagnoli 45+5 (L), Eustaquio 66 (P), Pedro 92 (L)
Lazio (4-2-3-1): Mandas; Marusic, Gigot (67′ Gila), Romagnoli, Tavares; Guendouzi, Vecino; Tchaouna ( 67′ Rovella), Pedro, Zaccagni; Castellanos (67′ Dia). All. M. Baroni
Porto (4-2-3-1): Costa; Martim (61′ Joao Mario), Djalò, Perez, Moura; Varela (62′ Nico), Eustaquio; F. Vieira, Namaso (61′ Pepe), Galeno, Omorodion.
