It was a thrilling match between Lazio and Genoa at the Stadio Olimpico, as the Biancocelesti managed to hold on for a 4-3 win versus the Rossoblu. Joaquin Correa led the way with a brace as he followed up with another impressive performance for Lazio.
What seemed to be a sure victory for Lazio was nearly a massive collapse from them. In the final ten minutes, Lazio held a 4-1 lead and conceded successive goals in a span of two minutes which gave Genoa the momentum to start a comeback. Fortunately for Lazio, they closed out the match and prevented Genoa from stealing points. It was a frantic ending, with Lazio scrapping out a victory and avoiding an immense meltdown.
The three points were critical for Lazio as they remain within the distance of a top-four spot. With Napoli and Atalanta dropping points, the Biancocelesti gained ground with the teams ahead of them. As for Genoa, they’re five points above the relegation zone and will continue to fight to stay in the top flight.
So, what did we learn from Lazio’s 4-3 victory over Genoa?
Wesley Hoedt Steps up in Place of the Suspended Francesco Acerbi
Throughout the past week, there was much debate about who would start in place of Francesco Acerbi, who was suspended for this match. Between Marco Parolo and Wesley Hoedt, Lazio manager, Simone Inzaghi, selected the latter to start this match. Parolo, whose natural position is midfield, has appeared in matches this season as a centre-back.
Hoedt has been under criticism in recent times for his matches versus Inter Milan and Juventus, yet has managed to have a decent season overall. On Sunday, the Dutchman stepped up admirably in place of Acerbi. He provided a calm presence in the backend as he limited his mistakes, didn’t take many risks and was physical. On numerous set pieces and corner kicks, Hoedt did a great job of winning challenges and clearing the ball away towards safety.
With Lazio challenging for a top-four spot, it was a good performance from him that helped them secure the three points. The centre-back played a key role in Lazio’s second goal. He made a key interception inside the goal area to prevent Genoa from scoring which resulted in a counter-attack and led to Ciro Immobile winning a penalty. He finished the match with six clearances, two interceptions and one tackle. His passing was tremendous as well, as he converted 11/15 long ball passes.
Joaquin Correa Steps up at the Right Time
For most of the season, Immobile has delivered the bulk of goals for Lazio and scored game-winners. In recent times, Correa has stepped up for Lazio and has helped his side win pivotal matches. After a superb 2019/2020 Serie A campaign, the Argentine has struggled as far too often he’s disappeared in matches and shown to be inconsistent.
In the past two matches, that hasn’t been the case as he has scored four of their seven goals. With Lazio fighting to finish in a top-four spot and most of their goals coming from Immobile, they were going to need secondary help. Correa had a strong performance last weekend versus Milan and followed up with a similar effort against Genoa.
Throughout the match, Correa’s speed caused a problem for Genoa’s backend as he showed good footwork, made strong runs and was able to get into areas to score. The striker was effective with his passing as well, where he set up his teammates on a few occasions. With Correa showing good form at a crucial point in Lazio’s season, this gives them a strong chance to finish in the top four.
Ciro Immobile Too Much for Genoa to Handle
After going eight straight games without a goal in Serie A, Immobile has followed up with three straight games with a goal. He has five goals in the past four Serie A matches and is starting to regain his form. Immobile’s goal was his 149th with Lazio and he is now tied for first place with Silvio Piola. It has been a magnificent five seasons with Lazio for the Italian.
Immobile was effective throughout the match versus Genoa where he made strong runs, won numerous challenges and made key passes. Immobile finished the match with one goal, one assist, four key passes, five shots on target and a pass accuracy rate of 81%. However, it was his play when not in possession that was impressive. He was relentless to win the ball as he showed good intensity and determination.
Immobile continues to be the anchor behind Lazio’s offense and has become more of an unselfish player to help his side win matches. That was the case versus Genoa as on multiple occasions, he elected to make a pass instead of taking a shot which put his teammates in good areas to score. With Immobile playing very well, it has given Lazio a reason to believe that they could have a strong finish to their season.
