Lazio marked an impressive comeback by defeating AC Milan 10 in the Coppa Italia Round of 16. This victory avenged their recent Serie A loss. The match took place at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
Match Overview
Lazio’s Maurizio Sarri made minimal changes to his squad. Taty Castellanos returned to replace Boulaye Dia. Christos Mandas also made his season debut, completing the attack alongside Gustav Isaksen and Mattia Zaccagni. In contrast, AC Milan’s Max Allegri opted for a more altered lineup in their 3511 formation. Ruben LoftusCheek supported Rafael Leao in the attack, while Ardon Jashari partnered with Adrien Rabiot and Samuele Ricci in midfield.
First Half Insights
The opening half was largely uneventful, with both teams playing cautiously. Milan struggled to create scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, Lazio posed a threat, especially through Zaccagni, who nearly converted a chance from a through ball by Mandas. Another chance arose when Isaksen’s volley was blocked by Milan’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan.
Second Half Action
Milan began the second half more aggressively, with LoftusCheek attempting a header that narrowly missed the target. Ardon Jashari later set up Leao, but the shot went off target. Just when the match seemed destined for penalties, Lazio seized their moment.
Zaccagni’s Winning Header
In the 80th minute, Mattia Zaccagni scored the decisive goal. Following a corner taken by Nuno Tavares, Zaccagni’s precise header found the back of the net, leaving Maignan with no chance to save it. This goal not only showcased Zaccagni’s skill but also secured Lazio’s advantage.
Lazio Advances to QuarterFinals
Following Zaccagni’s goal, Lazio nearly doubled their lead shortly after, but Maignan made an exceptional save against Tijjani Noslin’s powerful shot. Milan pressed for an equalizer, and Christian Pulisic came close, but Mandas was alert and made a crucial save to ensure Lazio’s advancement.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Lazio | AC Milan |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 1 | 0 |
| Possession | 54% | 46% |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 3 |
Final Lineups
- Lazio (433): Mandas; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Pellegrini (71′ Tavares); Guendouzi, Vecino (57′ DeleBashiru), Basic; Isaksen (83′ Cancellieri), Castellanos (57′ Noslin), Zaccagni (83′ Pedro).
- AC Milan (352): Maignan; Tomori, De Winter, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers (64′ Nkunku), Ricci, Jashari (81′ Modric), Rabiot, Estupinan (86′ Bartesaghi); LoftusCheek (81′ Pulisic), Leao.
The referee for this match was Marco Guida, with VAR oversight by Pezzuto and Aureliano. Lazio’s victory earns them a place in the Coppa Italia quarterfinals, where they will look to continue their strong performance.