Lazio Secure Champions League Position with Hard-Fought Victory Against Empoli

SS Lazio continued their undefeated head-to-head streak against Serie A relegation battlers Empoli, stretching it to 13 matches following a hard-fought 1-0 win at Stadio Carlo Castellani. This victory keeps their aspirations for a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League very much alive.

As the end of the season approaches, Empoli’s precarious position demands immediate action. The Azzurri Empolesi were acutely aware that they had to secure a win to maintain their hopes of staying in the top flight.

However, with a dismal run of 12 consecutive defeats to Lazio in the past encounters, the home side faced significant challenges, while Lazio were highly motivated in their quest for a top-four finish.

The visitors got off to a phenomenal start, taking the lead within the first minute. Elseid Hysaj’s deft chip over the Empoli defence found Boulaye Dia, who skillfully controlled the ball before slotting it past Devis Vásquez, giving Lazio the perfect beginning.

Despite the early setback, the hosts reacted positively, though losing striker Lorenzo Colombo to his second yellow card six minutes before half-time made their task more daunting.

With this setback, Empoli’s chances looked grim, but they thought they had found an equaliser just after the second half began.

A free-kick from Junior Sambia was headed onto a Lazio player by Ola Solbakken before falling fortuitously for Mattia Viti, who slotted it home, only for the goal to be disallowed for offside after a VAR review.

Desperate for a moment of inspiration, Empoli found a flicker of hope when Hysaj was sent off with a second yellow card late in the game, momentarily evening the numbers on the pitch.

While Empoli pushed hard for an equaliser in the dying minutes, the Biancocelesti held their ground and even managed some threatening moments of their own towards the end.

Ultimately, Lazio grasped what could be three vital points in their pursuit of UEFA Champions League qualification, temporarily climbing to fourth place in the league.

Meanwhile, the Azzurri Empolesi remain in a troubling 19th position, still two points adrift of safety with only three matches left in the season.

Check out a summary of the match here