The highly anticipated Derby della Capitale between Lazio and Roma kicked off at the Stadio Olimpico on April 13, 2025, with both teams vying for crucial points in the Serie A standings. With only two points separating them in sixth and seventh place, the stakes were high for this intense rivalry.
Lazio, coming off a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League quarter-finals, was eager to bounce back. The team welcomed back Taty Castellanos, who had been sidelined with injuries, and Mattia Zaccagni, while Gustav Isaksen also featured prominently in the starting lineup. Lazio’s lineup included Mandas; Marusic, Gigot, Romagnoli, Luca Pellegrini; Guendouzi, Rovella; Isaksen, Dele-Bashiru, Zaccagni; and Castellanos.
On the other hand, Roma entered the match with renewed confidence after winning seven consecutive Serie A matches before a draw with Juventus. Under the guidance of Claudio Ranieri, who was set to retire after this season, the team was determined to continue their strong run. Their lineup featured Svilar; Celik, Mancini, Ndicka; Saelemaekers, Koné, Paredes, Angelino; Soulé, Lorenzo Pellegrini; and Dovbyk.
The match began with both teams exchanging possession, but it was Lazio who struck first. In the 44th minute, Alessio Romagnoli scored with a powerful header from the center of the box, finding the bottom left corner after a well-placed cross from Luca Pellegrini following a set-piece situation. This goal sent the Lazio fans into a frenzy as they took a 1-0 lead into halftime.
As the second half commenced, Roma made a tactical change, bringing on Bryan Cristante to replace Leandro Paredes, hoping to bolster their midfield and create more scoring opportunities. Despite their efforts, Roma struggled to break through Lazio's defense, which was solid throughout the match.
Throughout the first half, both teams had their chances. Gustav Isaksen had a left-footed shot saved in the top left corner, and Luca Pellegrini also threatened with a shot from outside the box that was blocked. Meanwhile, Roma's Lorenzo Pellegrini had a left-footed attempt saved in the bottom right corner, showcasing the tight contest.
Despite a few yellow cards being issued, including one to Lazio's Mattia Zaccagni and another to Roma's Leandro Paredes for bad fouls, the intensity of the match remained high. Both teams were eager to capitalize on any mistakes from their opponents.
As the match progressed, Lazio continued to apply pressure. They earned several corner kicks, but Roma's defense, led by Mancini and Ndicka, held firm. The match saw a flurry of fouls, with players from both sides winning free kicks, but neither team could find the back of the net again.
In the final moments of the match, Roma desperately pushed for an equalizer. With Dovbyk and Soulé leading the charge, they created a few late chances, but Lazio's goalkeeper Mandas was up to the task, making crucial saves to maintain the lead.
With the clock winding down and the tension palpable, Lazio managed to hold on to their 1-0 lead, securing a vital win in the Derby della Capitale. This victory not only boosted their morale after a tough Europa League exit but also kept them in contention for European qualification.
After the match, Lazio's coach praised his team's resilience and ability to perform under pressure, stating, "We showed great character today, especially after our recent setback. This win is crucial for our season." Meanwhile, Claudio Ranieri expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about Roma's chances in the remaining matches of the season, emphasizing the importance of learning from this defeat.
As both teams look ahead, Lazio will aim to build on this momentum, while Roma must regroup and refocus as they continue their pursuit of Champions League qualification. With the Serie A season heating up, every point will be crucial in the weeks to come.
