Ranieri’s Roma Triumph Over Lazio in Fierce Derby Clash

Posted : 06 January 2025

Roma secured an impressive 2-0 victory over city rivals Lazio on Sunday, delivering a significant win for Claudio Ranieri since his return to manage his boyhood club for the third time. Goals from Lorenzo Pellegrini and Alexis Saelemaekers, scored within an eight-minute span in the first half, sealed the victory in a charged atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico.

This crucial win lifted Roma to 10th place in the Serie A standings, with 23 points, providing some distance from the relegation zone, though they remain 12 points adrift of Lazio, who occupy the final Champions League spot.

Ranieri's impact has been evident since taking over in November as Roma's third coach of the season. The team was in disarray when the 73-year-old veteran stepped in, with relegation looming as a real possibility. However, under his guidance, Roma have shown signs of revival.

Sunday's win, following a promising draw at AC Milan, highlighted the team’s growing cohesion and ability to leverage their talent. Despite the progress, the match was not without its challenges, as Roma spent much of the second half defending against Lazio’s relentless efforts to stage a comeback.

Lazio came close to narrowing the deficit, with Valentin Castellanos and Nuno Tavares creating notable chances, while Loum Tchaouna's shot struck the crossbar. Lazio's frustration culminated in Castellanos being sent off in stoppage time after a heated altercation. Meanwhile, Pellegrini’s standout performance was pivotal.

Making a surprise start alongside Paulo Dybala and Artem Dovbyk, the Roma captain silenced his critics with a stunning opening goal. Once accused by fans of undermining Daniele De Rossi earlier in the season, Pellegrini celebrated passionately, kissing the club badge after scoring his first league goal of the campaign.

Roma's second goal came shortly after, as Saelemaekers capitalized on a rebound following Dybala's pass and Ivan Provedel’s save. Pellegrini received a standing ovation when substituted midway through the second half, signaling a renewed connection with supporters and a sense of optimism for the team. For Ranieri, the win represents a step forward in rebuilding confidence and stability after a difficult start to the season, as Roma look to climb further up the league table.

Ranieri’s Roma Triumph Over Lazio in Fierce Derby Clash

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