After winning their first four Europa League contests, Lazio had to settle for a surprising draw against Ludogorets at home.
In addition to their perfect European record, the Biancocelesti entered the contest riding a seven-match winning streak across all competitions. However, this golden run reached a sudden halt against an unexpected opponent.
Uneventful First Half
Marco Baroni rotated his lineup as usual, this time adopting what was almost a 4-4-2 formation spearheaded by Boulaye Dia and Tijjani Noslin, with Pedro and Loum Tchaouna on the wings. However, this attacking combination found little joy in the first half, failing to create too many chances. And even when they managed to hit the target, Ludogorets’ goalkeeper Hendrick Bonmann was equal to it.
Halftime Changes
The Lazio boss tried to ring the changes after the interval, beginning with an immediate triple substitution. Taty Castellanos, Gustav Isaksen and Manuel Lazzari came on, followed by Nicolo Rovella and Mattia Zaccagni, but the Aquile still found difficulties breaking the Bulgarians’ well-organized defensive lines.
Major Controversy
However, the biggest talking point of the evening ensued at the 73rd minute when Isaksen was brought down in the box by the onrushing Erick Marcus. Referee Duje Strukan saw nothing wrong with the challenge, refusing to blow the whistle. And while everyone had expected him to point towards the spot after being summoned for an on-field review, the stubborn Croatian stood by his original call, sparking fury among the home supporters.
Matteo Guendouzi Hits the Post
In the minutes of the contest, Matteo Guendouzi almost snatched the win with an ambitious long-range effort, but his attempt crashed against the crossbar, so the match ended with a goalless draw. Lazio have thus lifted their tally to 13 points, while Ludogorets have earned their second point.
Lazio 0-0 Ludogorets
Lazio (4-2-3-1): Mandas; Marusic, Gigot, Patric, Pellegrini; Guendouzi, Vecino; Tchaouna, Dia, Pedro; Noslin.
Ludogorets (4-3-1-2): Bonmann, Witry, Kurtulus, Almeida, Son; Duarte, Pedro Naressi; Gropper, Chochev; Rwan Seco, Eric Marcus.
