Mattia Zaccagni delivered a stunning performance, scoring the decisive goal that secured Lazio a 1-0 victory against Monza in their latest Serie A clash. This win marks a continuation of Lazio’s impressive form both domestically and in European competitions.
The Aquile entered the match with high spirits, having triumphed in nine of their last ten encounters, including a thrilling last-minute victory over FC Porto that placed them at the top of their Europa League group. Despite the absence of Gaetano Castrovilli due to injury, Nuno Tavares returned from suspension to bolster the squad. Conversely, Monza was without key players Stefano Sensi, Alessio Cragno, and Roberto Gagliardini, making this fixture particularly significant for their coach, Alessandro Nesta, a former Lazio star.
The match kicked off with early chances for Monza, as Dany Mota Carvalho capitalized on a defensive error by Mario Gila but failed to convert. Daniel Maldini also squandered an opportunity shortly after. Lazio responded with threats of their own; Boulaye Dia nearly scored after intercepting a poor back-pass from Pedro Pereira, forcing a difficult save from Monza’s goalkeeper.
Zaccagni’s first attempt came in the 33rd minute when his curling shot hit the far post. However, he soon made amends by scoring the winning goal just moments later. After Pedro regained possession in midfield, Matteo Guendouzi set up Zaccagni for a precise right-footed shot that found the bottom corner.
Monza attempted to rally in the second half, with Dany Mota coming close with an acrobatic bicycle kick and Nicolò Rovella testing Lazio’s goalkeeper Stefano Turati with a powerful half-volley. Despite their efforts, Monza struggled to break through Lazio’s resolute defense. A diving header from Boulaye Dia fell short of connecting with Tavares’ cross, and Daniel Maldini’s shot from close range also missed the target.
As the match progressed, Monza increased their attacking pressure but failed to create significant threats against Lazio’s Ivan Provedel. A late free kick from Gianluca Caprari was blocked by the wall, sealing Monza’s fate as they were unable to find an equalizer.
Goals: Zaccagni 36 (L)
Monza (3-4-2-1) – Turati; Izzo, Marì, Carboni (55′ Pessina); Pereira, Bondo, Bianco, Kyriakopoulos; Mota, Maldini (75′ Caprari); Djuric
Lazio (4-3-3) – Provedel; Marusic, Romagnoli, Gila, Tavares (76′ Pellegrini); Vecino, Rovella, Guendouzi; Pedro (60′ Isaksen), Dia (60′ Castellanos), Zaccagni (76′ Noslin).
