In a thrilling encounter, Lazio defeated Bologna in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, emerging victorious on penalties, 4-1. The match, held on February 11, ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation time, prompting a tense shootout. Lazio’s goalkeeper, Provedel, was pivotal in the victory, saving penalties from Ferguson and Orsolini.
Lazio Advances on Penalties
The match began with Bologna taking the lead in the 30th minute through Castro, who struck a header from a corner. Despite the setback, Lazio quickly responded. After halftime, Noslin equalized just three minutes into the second half. This set the stage for a dramatic penalty shootout.
Key Match Highlights
- First Goal: Castro scored for Bologna in the 30th minute.
- Equalizer: Noslin found the net for Lazio early in the second half.
- Pivotal Moments: Provedel saved two crucial penalties.
- Final Score: Match ended 1-1, Lazio won 4-1 on penalties.
Bologna’s early advantage was short-lived, as Lazio regrouped and pressed for an equalizer. The game saw numerous chances on both ends, creating an electrifying atmosphere. However, injuries affected play, including a significant injury to Lazio’s Pedro, requiring him to leave for medical evaluation.
Penalty Shootout Showdown
In the shootout, Lazio displayed precision, successfully converting all their attempts. In contrast, Bologna faltered, with both Ferguson and Orsolini missing their chances. This poor performance marked Bologna’s exit from the tournament, ending their reign as defending champions.
After the win, Lazio’s Chairman Claudio Lotito celebrated from the stands as his team advanced to the semifinals. Lazio will next face Atalanta, with the first leg of the double-header scheduled for March 4.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Lazio | Bologna |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 1 | 1 |
| Pens (Converted) | 4 | 1 |
| Possession (%) | 52% | 48% |
| Shots on Target | 6 | 4 |
As the Coppa Italia progresses, Lazio’s momentum continues, with hopes high for the upcoming semifinals against Atalanta. The thrilling quarter-final matchup solidifies Lazio’s position as a formidable contender in the competition.
