Lazio had to work hard for all three points at the Stadio Carlo Castellani, securing a tough 2-0 victory over Empoli.
The Biancocelesti’s confidence had been shaken after a difficult run this month, which saw them fail to win in three consecutive matches against Hellas Verona, Atletico Madrid and Inter. Despite the difficulties, Maurizio Sarri expressed calm, trying to find the positives despite the results.
Empoli have been in disastrous form this season, picking up just three wins and three draws in their first 16 outings, piling the pressure on ahead of Lazio’s trip to Tuscany. The team entered the weekend in the relegation zone, desperate to put points on the board.
Lazio started the match well and a burst forward in the 9th minute saw a chaotic scramble in the Empoli penalty area, which eventually ended with a lashed shot from Matteo Guendouzi, who gave his side a 1-0 lead.
The Biancocelesti kept up the pressure and had another early change through Guendouzi, but they were unable to double their advantage. The Tuscan side had a few chances of their own, but strong work from Ivan Provedel ensured the away side kept their lead.
Empoli continued to push for an equaliser in the second half but again Provedel pulled off a number of impressive saves to deny the hosts, keeping his team in the driving seat.
Zaccagni doubled Lazio’s lead in the 67th minute, having two shots saved by Elia Caprile before he eventually poked the ball into the back of the net, giving Sarri’s side a little breathing room amidst the pressure.
The Roman club saw out their victory, taking home all three points after a difficult but enjoyable evening at the Stadio Carlo Castellani.
