Roma Vs Lazio: Derby Della Capitale - March 1, 2017
Hey guys! Let's dive into a memorable clash from the past, the Derby della Capitale between Roma and Lazio on March 1, 2017. This match was more than just a game; it was a battle for bragging rights in Rome, filled with passion, intensity, and unforgettable moments. If you're a football fan, especially of Italian football, you know this derby is one of the fiercest in the world. Let's get into the details!
The Derby della Capitale: A Historic Rivalry
The Derby della Capitale, or the Rome Derby, is one of the most historic and heated rivalries in football. Dating back to the early 1900s, the animosity between AS Roma and SS Lazio is deeply rooted in the social and political fabric of the city. Roma, traditionally supported by the working class, and Lazio, with its ties to the more affluent sections of Rome, have always been at loggerheads.
Background of the Teams
Before we delve into the specifics of the March 1, 2017 match, let's set the stage by looking at where both teams stood at the time. In the 2016-2017 season, Roma was a strong contender for the Serie A title, boasting a formidable squad with stars like Edin Džeko, Radja Nainggolan, and Mohamed Salah. Under the guidance of coach Luciano Spalletti, Roma played an attacking style of football, aiming to dominate their opponents and secure a Champions League spot.
Lazio, on the other hand, was undergoing a period of rebuilding under Simone Inzaghi. While they may not have had the same star power as Roma, Lazio was a team on the rise, with talented players such as Ciro Immobile, Felipe Anderson, and Sergej Milinković-Savić. Inzaghi's tactical approach focused on a well-organized defense and quick counter-attacks, making them a dangerous opponent for any team in the league. The context of this match was set perfectly with Roma fighting for the scudetto and Lazio trying to assert themselves as a force to be reckoned with.
Key Players to Watch
In this particular derby, several players were expected to make a significant impact. For Roma, Edin Džeko was the main man up front, known for his clinical finishing and aerial prowess. Radja Nainggolan, with his tireless energy and powerful shots from midfield, was another key player. Mohamed Salah's pace and dribbling skills on the wing were always a threat to the opposition's defense.
For Lazio, Ciro Immobile was the focal point of their attack, with his knack for being in the right place at the right time. Felipe Anderson's creativity and flair on the wing could unlock any defense, while Sergej Milinković-Savić's physical presence and technical ability in midfield were crucial for Lazio's overall performance. These were the players who could turn the game on its head with a moment of brilliance.
The Match: Roma vs Lazio, March 1, 2017
First Half Action
The match kicked off at the Stadio Olimpico, with both teams displaying their intent from the get-go. The atmosphere was electric, with the fans creating a cauldron of noise and passion. Roma started strongly, dominating possession and creating several early chances. Their attacking trio of Džeko, Salah, and Nainggolan kept the Lazio defense on their toes.
However, it was Lazio who drew first blood. In the 12th minute, Sergej Milinković-Savić capitalized on a defensive lapse by Roma to slot the ball past the goalkeeper, giving Lazio an early lead. The Lazio fans erupted in celebration, while the Roma supporters were stunned into silence. Roma tried to respond immediately, but the Lazio defense, led by Stefan de Vrij, remained resolute.
Second Half Drama
The second half saw Roma come out with renewed vigor, determined to get back into the game. They pressed higher up the pitch, putting the Lazio defense under immense pressure. Their efforts paid off in the 45th minute when Daniele De Rossi converted a penalty after a foul in the box. The Roma captain calmly slotted the ball home, leveling the score and sending the Roma fans into raptures.
However, Lazio quickly restored their lead. Just two minutes later, in the 47th minute, Felipe Anderson scored a brilliant goal, cutting in from the left wing and unleashing an unstoppable shot into the top corner. Once again, Lazio were ahead, and the momentum shifted back in their favor. Roma tried to respond once again, but they found it difficult to break down Lazio's well-organized defense.
As the game wore on, tensions rose, and the match became increasingly physical. Both teams committed tactical fouls, and there were several heated exchanges between players. In the dying minutes of the game, Lazio sealed the victory. In the 85th minute, Lucas Biglia converted a penalty after a foul, making it 3-1 to Lazio. The Lazio fans were ecstatic, knowing that they had secured a famous victory in the Derby della Capitale.
Key Moments and Turning Points
Several key moments defined the outcome of this match. Milinković-Savić's early goal set the tone for Lazio, giving them the confidence to defend resolutely. De Rossi's penalty brought Roma back into the game, but Felipe Anderson's stunning goal just two minutes later was a hammer blow. Biglia's late penalty sealed the victory for Lazio, ensuring that they would take all three points.
Tactical Analysis
Roma's Strategy
Roma's strategy was clear: to dominate possession and use their attacking trio to break down the Lazio defense. They focused on quick passing and movement, trying to create space and exploit any weaknesses in the Lazio backline. However, they struggled to cope with Lazio's counter-attacking threat and were often caught out of position.
Lazio's Strategy
Lazio's tactical approach was based on a solid defensive structure and quick transitions. They absorbed Roma's pressure and looked to hit them on the counter-attack, using the pace and skill of Felipe Anderson and Ciro Immobile. Their midfield was well-organized, and they effectively stifled Roma's creative players. Lazio’s plan worked almost to perfection, frustrating Roma's attack and capitalizing on their defensive errors.
Impact of Substitutions
Both managers made substitutions in the second half, trying to influence the game. Roma brought on Stephan El Shaarawy and Diego Perotti to add more attacking impetus, while Lazio introduced Marco Parolo and Patric to shore up their defense. These substitutions had a limited impact on the overall outcome, as Lazio managed to hold on to their lead and secure the victory. Although Roma tried to inject more pace and creativity, Lazio’s substitutions were more about solidifying their defense and seeing out the game.
The Aftermath
Reactions and Analysis
The result sparked contrasting reactions from both sets of fans. Lazio supporters celebrated wildly, reveling in their derby victory. Roma fans were left disappointed, knowing that they had missed an opportunity to close the gap on the league leaders. The media analysis focused on Lazio's tactical superiority and Roma's defensive frailties. Many pundits praised Simone Inzaghi for his astute game plan and criticized Luciano Spalletti for his team's lack of resilience.
Impact on the Season
This victory was a significant boost for Lazio, helping them to cement their place in the top four and qualify for the Europa League. For Roma, the defeat was a setback in their title challenge, allowing Juventus to extend their lead at the top of the table. Ultimately, Roma finished second in Serie A that season, while Lazio finished fifth, highlighting the importance of this derby in the context of the season.
Conclusion
The Derby della Capitale on March 1, 2017, was a thrilling encounter filled with drama, passion, and tactical intrigue. Lazio's 3-1 victory was a testament to their well-organized defense and clinical counter-attacking play. While Roma dominated possession, they were unable to break down Lazio's resistance and were ultimately punished for their defensive errors. This match will be remembered as a classic derby, showcasing the intensity and excitement of Italian football. It remains a significant moment in the history of this famous rivalry, with Lazio fans cherishing the memory of a famous victory.
