Lazio extended their unbeaten run to seven matches with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Juventus at the Stadio Olimpico, a result that keeps them neck-and-neck with the fourth-placed visitors in what could prove to be a decisive clash in the UEFA Champions League qualification race.
With only goal difference separating the teams before kickoff, a cagey first half unfolded much as expected inside a nervy Stadio Olimpico.
Early on, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru offered a rare glimpse of danger with a shot that skimmed the side netting, but clear-cut chances remained elusive through the opening 45 minutes.
Juventus suffered a setback during a fiery seven-minute spell, as both Khephren Thuram and Nicolo Savona received bookings that will rule them out of the upcoming home fixture against Udinese.
Yet, the visitors managed to mount the best chance of the half shortly afterward when Alberto Costa wriggled into space and fired low with his left foot, only for his effort to be deflected wide.
Rejuvenated after the break, Juventus wasted little time asserting themselves. Just six minutes into the second half, Weston McKennie sent in a superb cross that met the head of Randal Kolo Muani, who nodded home past Christos Mandas.
The Lazio goalkeeper got a touch but couldn’t prevent the opener.
However, Juventus’ rhythm was soon disrupted. An off-the-ball incident saw Pierre Kalulu sent off, reducing the Bianconeri to ten men just past the hour mark.
Lazio, buoyed by a record of three consecutive home wins in this fixture, pressed forward with intent, but a defiant Juventus defense stood firm through wave after wave of pressure.
Eventually, the breakthrough arrived. In the dying seconds, Pedro’s header forced a save, but the rebound fell kindly to Matias Vecino, who tucked it away from close range to secure what could be a vital point.
The result marked Lazio’s sixth straight home draw in Serie A, a feat not seen since 1991 and lifted them to fifth place, level on points with Juventus, though they’ve played a game more than sixth-placed AS Roma.
Lazio now face a daunting away trip to Inter Milan at the San Siro, while Juventus, despite moving up to fourth, will likely rue the missed opportunity, with the battle for UCL spots still very much alive.
