Lazio pulled off a major upset, edging closer to their first Champions League quarter-final appearance in 24 years with a 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the first leg of their last 16 tie. The Italian side rode on a Ciro Immobile penalty and a red card for Dayot Upamecano to secure a vital first-leg advantage.
Immobile, fresh off scoring his 200th Serie A goal, converted from the spot in the 69th minute after Upamecano's clumsy challenge on Gustav Isaksen. The penalty award proved decisive as Bayern, already grappling with poor form, failed to register a single shot on target throughout the match.
This victory was a special moment for the Lazio faithful, celebrating a night to remember against the mighty Bundesliga champions. "We prepared for this match so we could challenge Bayern. Even if we had a 10 percent chance, the team would have given everything on the pitch," Immobile remarked, highlighting the determination that fueled their performance.
Lazio, last reaching the quarter-finals in 2000, will now aim to defend their lead in Munich next month and repeat their past glory. However, the bigger picture paints a contrasting scenario for Bayern. Their lackluster performance, coupled with their recent 3-0 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, raises questions about their current state and puts manager Thomas Tuchel under even more pressure.
Despite acknowledging the team's "slapstick" display, Tuchel downplayed concerns about his job security. However, the Champions League, once seen as their best shot at silverware this season, now hangs in the balance after Immobile's decisive penalty.
Star striker Harry Kane admitted to Bayern's "really tough week," acknowledging the need to fight back and turn things around. "We have big games and big things to fight for," he emphasized, expressing hope for a reversal of fortunes.
The opening half witnessed Bayern's dominance, but clear chances were scarce. The only shot on target came from a tame header by Alessio Romagnoli for Lazio. Bayern had opportunities through Kane and Leroy Sane, but both attempts narrowly missed the mark.
However, the script flipped after the break. Neuer's intervention denied Isaksen from putting Lazio ahead after a brilliant setup by Luis Alberto. Just as Bayern seemed to be regaining control, Upamecano's foul gifted Lazio a penalty, expertly converted by Immobile for his 20th goal of the season.
The red card further hampered Bayern's efforts, and Lazio's well-organized defense held firm to secure a famous victory. With the tie poised delicately, the second leg in Munich promises to be an intriguing encounter, with Lazio aiming to solidify their advantage and Bayern desperate to salvage their European campaign.
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