Lazio pulled off a surprise victory over Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday night. Ciro Immobile scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot after Dayot Upamecano was sent off for a reckless tackle on Gustav Isaksen. The result gives the Italian side a slender advantage ahead of the return leg in Germany on March 5.
Lazio frustrate Bayern in first half
The hosts started the game with a defensive mindset, hoping to contain the reigning European champions and hit them on the counter-attack. Bayern dominated possession and created some chances, but Lazio goalkeeper Pepe Reina was alert to deny Harry Kane and Leroy Sane. Lazio also had some opportunities of their own, with Immobile and Luis Alberto testing Manuel Neuer from distance.
The best chance of the half fell to Kane, who was played through by Joshua Kimmich in the 38th minute. The England captain rounded Reina, but his shot was cleared off the line by Francesco Acerbi. The score remained 0-0 at the break, with Lazio satisfied with their performance and Bayern frustrated by their lack of finishing.
Upamecano sees red, Immobile scores from the spot
The second half started with more intensity, as both teams looked for the opening goal. Bayern continued to press, but Lazio defended well and looked dangerous on the break. The game changed in the 67th minute, when Upamecano, who had been booked earlier, lunged in on Isaksen and received a straight red card. The referee had no hesitation in sending off the French defender, who will miss the second leg.
Two minutes later, Lazio took the lead from the resulting penalty. Immobile, who had been quiet for most of the game, stepped up and calmly slotted the ball past Neuer. It was his 24th goal of the season in all competitions, and his first in the Champions League knockout stages. The home fans erupted in joy, as they sensed a historic win.
Bayern fail to find an equalizer, Lazio hold on for a famous win
Bayern tried to respond, but they found it hard to break down Lazio’s disciplined defense. The visitors had more shots, but none of them troubled Reina. Lazio, on the other hand, could have doubled their lead, but Isaksen and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic missed their chances. The final whistle blew, and Lazio celebrated a remarkable victory over the favorites.
The result means that Lazio have a one-goal advantage going into the second leg, but they will also be aware that Bayern are capable of turning things around. The German side have scored 18 goals in their last four away games in the Champions League, and they will not give up their title easily. The second leg promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams will fight for a place in the quarter-finals.
