Lazio's Goalkeeper Ivan Provedel scores dramatic header to secure 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in Champions League

Posted : 20 September 2023

In a dramatic turn of events, Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel made a stunning header in stoppage time, securing a 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday. Provedel, in his Champions League debut, showcased his unexpected attacking prowess by meeting a cross from Luis Alberto with a glancing header.

The goal was a moment of redemption for Provedel, who had been frustrated when Pablo Barrios scored for Atletico in the first half, with the ball taking a significant deflection off Lazio midfielder Daichi Kamada.

Reflecting on the remarkable night, Provedel shared his excitement, saying, "It's a night I'll remember all my life. I'm happy, especially because we managed to level a game we didn't deserve to lose. It hasn't sunk in yet; later, I will realize that I scored in the Champions League. Football is sometimes about moments and not just performance. I am sorry that we had to equalize at the last second. I hope the point gives us momentum as motivation and enthusiasm."

Provedel made history by becoming only the second goalkeeper in Champions League history to score a goal that wasn't from the penalty spot. The last goalkeeper to achieve this feat was Nigeria's Vincent Enyeama, who did it for Hapoel Tel Aviv 13 years ago.

Before the match, Lazio fans warmly welcomed Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone, who played a key role in Lazio's 2000 Serie A title win and also clinched three other trophies with the club. Banners held by Lazio's passionate supporters read, "Rome and Lazio will always be your home. Welcome back, Cholo, our champion of Italy."

While Atletico has a rich history in the Champions League, making their 11th consecutive group appearance, Lazio's participation in the competition is only their second in the last 16 seasons.

During the match, Lazio created numerous chances, with players like Mattia Zaccagni and Luis Alberto coming close on multiple occasions. However, Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak made several important saves.

The match ended with a thrilling sequence, as Oblak denied a long shot from Danilo Cataldi in stoppage time, just before Provedel's dramatic equalizer.

Despite the late goal, Atletico's coach Diego Simeone expressed satisfaction with his team's performance. "We played a good second half, we had clear goal-scoring chances. We defended organized and with a lot of effort. I am left with a good feeling despite the goal in the last minute," he commented.

Looking ahead, Lazio will travel to Glasgow to face Celtic on October 4th, while Atletico will host Feyenoord on the same day.

Lazio's Goalkeeper Ivan Provedel scores dramatic header to secure 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in Champions League

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