Failed To Win In The Europa League, Lazio Stayed At The Top Of The Standings

Lazio remain at the top of the Europa League standings after a 0-0 draw against Ludogorets. (sslazio.it)

JAKARTA - Lazio failed to maintain a winning record in the Europa League after drawing 0-0 against Ludogorets in the match at the Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Friday, November 29, 2024 in the morning WIB. Despite his disappointment, Lazio remained at the top of the standings.

Lazio are frustrated to face the strong defense of Ludogorets. In that match, Lazio completely controlled the game and created many chances. But they always failed to convert every opportunity.

Appearing aggressive and pressing the opponent, Marco Baroni's team got at least two good chances from Boulaye Dia. However, all these opportunities could have been thwarted by goalkeeper Hedrik Bonmann.

In the second half, Lazio stepped up the pressure. However, the Biancoceleste still struggled to penetrate the opponent's defense.

Lazio actually had a chance to get a penalty when Gustav Isaksen was brought down by Erick Marcus in the forbidden box. However, after reviewing the incident via VAR for a long time, referee Duje Strukan stated that there were no violations so there were no penalties.

The referee's decision disappointed Baroni. Moreover, Lazio finally failed to win and only drew so that for the first time he lost full points in the Europa League.

"When the team constantly carried out attacks that ended in six yellow cards and they were only two plus that incident, what else do I need to say about the referee," Baroni was quoted as saying by Football Italia.

"I don't want to congratulate him on his performance. A referee who leads a match at this level should work sporty. But it wasn't seen in this match. We are really disappointed because we only got one point in this good match," he said again.

Baroni, further, said Lazio had difficulty winning the game against a team that only lasted. Even Ludogorets seemed to pick out'marking the bus' in order to get a point in the away game.

"It's not an easy game against opponents who come just to defend and find a draw. There is absolutely no room in midfield. They put six defenders and three midfielders. This made us unable to play fast, especially in the first half," he said.

The draw tarnished Lazio's brilliant record in European competitions. They have won four of the five matches that brought the Italian Serie A team to the top by pocketing 13 points.

Lazio's points were the same as Athletic Bilbao and Eintracht Frankfurt. But they have a better goal difference than the two teams. Even though he is in the top position, Lazio has not been able to make sure to qualify automatically for the last 16.