In a dramatic encounter at the San Siro, Lazio triumphed 2-1 over a 10-man AC Milan, with Pedro scoring an injury-time penalty to secure all three points in a controversial finish.
Early control and Zaccagni’s opener
The game began with both teams playing evenly, but Lazio gradually gained control and deservedly took the lead in the 28th minute. Capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Milan, Adam Marusic charged forward and unleashed a shot on goal that Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan could only parry into the path of Lazio’s Mattia Zaccagni. The Lazio captain was quick to react, sliding in to tap the ball home from close range, giving his team the lead.
Milan’s struggles and injury to Musah
As the game progressed, Milan’s attacking efforts faltered, and they struggled to break down Lazio’s defense. Just before halftime, Joao Felix replaced Yunus Musah, who appeared to be nursing an injury.
Despite the substitution, Milan’s attack lacked the necessary spark, and they failed to create any meaningful chances before the break.
A red card for Milan and a late equalizer
Milan’s hopes of mounting a comeback were dealt a major blow in the 67th minute when Strahinja Pavlovic was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Lazio’s Gustav Isaksen. While the tackle seemed harsh considering there were other defenders in close proximity, Milan were left to play with 10 men for the remainder of the match.
Despite the numerical advantage, Lazio could not extend their lead, and with just six minutes remaining, Milan capitalized. A well-placed cross from Rafael Leao found substitute Samuel Chukwueze, who powered in a header past Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel, sending the San Siro crowd into raptures as Milan equalized.
Controversial penalty seals Lazio’s win
Both teams pushed for a winner, but it was Lazio who claimed the final say. In the dying moments of the game, a controversial penalty decision saw Maignan penalized for a foul on Isaksen. The home crowd, visibly frustrated by the decision, expressed their displeasure with whistles and boos. However, Pedro kept his composure and coolly sent Maignan the wrong way, converting the penalty to give Lazio a dramatic 2-1 victory.
Lazio's top four push
The win allowed Lazio to leapfrog Bologna and Juventus, securing a spot in the top four of the Serie A standings, at least temporarily. Lazio’s resilience and Pedro’s last-gasp penalty ensured they left San Siro with all three points in a match that will be remembered for its thrilling finish and the controversy surrounding the penalty.
