Teams had an optimal squad for this match. Fonseca heavily relies on Dzeko – Under – Kluivert in the attack, so all of them played today from the start. On the other side, Lazio played with two center forwards – Immobile and Correa.
We saw a fantastic match at the Stadio Olimpico. Both teams had a great game, and unfortunately Rome derby has no winner for today.
Head to head statistics
Roma and Lazio have the same results in last five derby. Both teams took two games, and one match was a goalless draw. None of the teams had a mid-week qualification in Champions or Europa league. So, both clubs in Rome were in perfect fitness condition.
Lazio 2-2 Roma
Lazio was a formal host today, and the game started with intensive attacks from the host side. Lazio’s attack was very sharp today, especially Immobile and Correa created many scoring chances but could not convert into a goal. Lazio had lots of shots in the first half, but most of those shots were blocked, or right post helped Roma.
In the mid of first half, Dzeko decided to cross in the penalty area when Lazio’s defender played with hand. The referee saw a clear handball and pointed on the penalty spot. Kolarov took advantage and scored the goal. Roma won the first half.
Inzaghi’s starting lineup became even sharper in the second half. On 59th minute, Immobile passed to Alberto who fired a shot into the bottom right side of goalkeeper – 1:1;
Overall, Lazio had an excellent performance but could not win the game. Inzaghi’s team had 23 goal attempts but could only convert one. The match was very intensive, and both sides had many scoring opportunities.
Future of both teams
Lazio is playing in the Europa League. On Friday, there was a group stage draw for Europa League. Lazio will face Celtic, Rennes, and Cluj. None of those opponents are comfortable, so Lazio will have to increase converting ability. Without scoring goals and converting shots into goals, they can’t win many games this season.
Roma has a new signing. Italian club signed Manchester’s defender, Chris Smalling, on loan. Chris will stay in Rome until the summer of 2020.
Smalling is 29 years old and can help Roma with his experience and defending skills. Manchester United brought Harry Maguire during the transfer window, so it was better decision to leave the Reds.