Lazio's Frattesi Proves the Difference as Bologna Fall 0-1
Lazio started their Serie A campaign with a valuable away victory over Bologna, winning 0-1 at the Renato Dall'Ara.
The match was a balanced affair with limited chances at both ends of the pitch, but Davide Frattesi emerged as the hero by scoring the solitary goal of the contest just minutes after his second-half introduction.
Frattesi, who made his first Serie A appearance for Lazio, opened his account for the club after a give-and-go with Boulaye Dia. The midfielder had a superb cameo, making a goal-line clearance to deny Eivend Helland, and was lively in the middle of the park.
Lazio's goalkeeper, Christos Mandas, had no business saving that free header from Jens Odgaard, but was somehow able to reach the ball. He was also brave to beat Jonathan Rowe to the ball, and denied a dangerous free kick from Federico Bernardeschi.
The Lazio XI included Adam Marusic, who picked up a knock in the process that ended his outing after just 15 minutes, and Danilho Doekhi, who had a convincing Serie A debut. Oliver Provstgaard made important interceptions, but almost gifted Bologna an equaliser with a poor pass.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was given the nod after a decent display against Mantova, but was wasteful and off the pace this time. He should have been hauled off at half-time, and ended up leaving the pitch injured in the second period.
Bologna's chances were limited, with the Lazio defence holding strong throughout the match. The Renato Dall'Ara contest was a low-key affair, but Lazio's victory will be a welcome boost for the club.
Lazio will now look to build on this victory, with their next match against Inter Milan on the horizon. The match is set to take place on Tuesday, with the winner looking to take a significant lead in the Serie A table.
Source: Yahoo Sports