Lazio secured their spot in the Europa League top eight with a commanding 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad, who were reduced to 10 men early in the match. The Biancocelesti’s impressive performance was highlighted by goals from Mario Gila, Taty Castellanos, and Mattia Zaccagni.
The home side wasted no time in asserting their dominance, with Gila opening the scoring early on. A well-executed set-piece saw Nuno Tavares deliver a long free-kick into the box, which Castellanos cleverly knocked down for Gila to emphatically finish from close range.
Real Sociedad’s hopes of a comeback were dealt a severe blow when Aihen Munoz received two yellow cards in quick succession for late challenges on Gustav Isaksen, leaving the Spanish side a man down after just 30 minutes.
Lazio capitalized on their numerical advantage almost immediately. Isaksen and Tavares combined effectively on the left flank before setting up Zaccagni, who calmly slotted home to double the lead. Castellanos then added a third with a deft header from another pinpoint Tavares cross.
The second half saw a significant drop in tempo as Lazio managed their lead and Real Sociedad focused on damage limitation. Despite the slower pace, Pedro came close to adding a fourth when his powerful shot struck the crossbar.
In the closing stages, Real Sociedad managed to salvage some pride with a consolation goal. Goalkeeper Christos Mandas failed to deal with an initial attempt from Jon Aramburu, allowing Ander Barrenetxea to score from close range.
The victory not only secures Lazio’s place in the knockout stages but also demonstrates their potential as serious contenders in the Europa League. For Real Sociedad, the defeat leaves their progression in doubt, with work to do in their final group stage match.
Goals: Gila 5 (L), Zaccagni 32 (L), Castellanos 34 (L), Barrenetxea 82 (S)
Lazio (4-2-3-1): Mandas; Marusic, Mario Gila, Romagnoli, Nuno Tavares (43′ Dele-Bashiru); Guendouzi, Rovella; Isaksen (55′ Noslin), Dia (76′ M. Baldé), Zaccagni (56′ Tchaouna); Castellanos (46′ Pedro).
Real Sociedad (4-3-3): Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Aguerd (dal 70′ Pacheco), Munoz; Kubo (dal 46′ Barrenetxea), Zubimendi (dal 46′ Elustondo), Mendez (dal 36′ J. Lopez); Oyarzabal (dal 46′ Marin), Sucic, Becker.
