In a thrilling encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, Roma secured a vital 2-0 victory against their bitter rivals Lazio in the Derby della Capitale. Despite a challenging season that saw them sitting significantly behind Lazio in the league standings, Roma demonstrated their resilience and determination to claim local bragging rights.
Going into the match, there was a stark 15-point gap between the two teams, with Roma having already cycled through three coaches this season. However, fresh from a recent draw against AC Milan, the Giallorossi were eager to turn their fortunes around. Captain Lorenzo Pellegrini, who had faced criticism throughout the campaign, made his first home start since October 2024 and was determined to make an impact.
The match began with intensity as both teams sought to assert their dominance. Early on, Manu Koné tested Lazio’s goalkeeper Ivan Provedel with a powerful shot. Roma then took the lead in the 10th minute through Pellegrini, who received a pass from Alexis Saelemaekers just inside the area. With a deft touch, he evaded Nicolò Rovella’s challenge and curled a stunning right-footed shot into the top corner, marking his third goal in this derby. Pellegrini celebrated by proudly displaying the club badge on his shirt, a gesture aimed at those who had questioned his commitment.
Just eight minutes later, Roma doubled their advantage. A long ball from goalkeeper Mile Svilar was flicked on by Artem Dovbyk to Paulo Dybala, who set up Saelemaekers for a close-range finish after Provedel parried his initial attempt.
Lazio struggled to convert their possession into clear-cut chances throughout the match. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru had a promising solo run but could only deflect his shot wide after evading challenges from Leandro Paredes and Mats Hummels. Taty Castellanos came close to scoring for Lazio early in the second half when his effort was deflected onto the side-netting.
As the match progressed, Roma’s defense held firm against Lazio’s attacks. Provedel made several key saves to deny Pellegrini and thwart attempts from Lazio’s substitutes. Loum Tchaouna nearly brought Lazio back into contention but failed to convert his chance after being set up by Boulaye Dia.
Tensions flared late in the game when Mats Hummels went down after a clash with Castellanos, igniting a scuffle that resulted in red cards for both the Lazio striker and a member of Roma’s staff.
Ultimately, Roma’s solid performance not only secured them three crucial points but also allowed them to keep a rare clean sheet against their rivals. This victory could serve as a turning point for the Giallorossi as they look to improve their season moving forward.
Goals: Pellegrini 11 (R), Saelemaekers 18 (R)
Roma (3-4-2-1): Svilar; Mancini, Hummels, Ndicka; Saelemaekers (dal 67′ El Shaarawy), Koné, Paredes, Angeliño; Dybala (74′ Baldanzi), Lo. Pellegrini (67′ Pisilli); Dovbyk (74′ Shomurodov)
Lazio (4-3-3): Provedel; Marusic (79′ Lazzari), Gila, Romagnoli, Nuno Tavares ( 89′. Lu. Pellegrini); Guendouzi, Rovella, Dele-Bashiru (46′ Dia); Isaksen (46′ Tchaouna), Castellanos, Zaccagni (89′ Noslin)
