Madrid, Spain (December 15, 2023) – Atletico Madrid wrapped up their Champions League group stage campaign in style with a 2-0 victory over Lazio, securing top spot in Group E. The win sends Diego Simeone’s men into the knockout stages with momentum and confidence, while Lazio, despite already qualifying, will be licking their wounds after a disappointing showing.
The home side got off to a flying start, with Antoine Griezmann opening the scoring in the 25th minute. The French forward pounced on a loose ball in the box after Lazio failed to deal with a cross, and his composed finish left Pepe Reina with no chance. Atletico continued to press for a second, with Angel Correa and Joao Felix both going close before the break.
Lazio, who had already secured their Europa League place, showed little urgency in the first half. Maurizio Sarri’s side struggled to create any clear-cut chances and looked second-best throughout. However, the introduction of Ciro Immobile in the second half seemed to spark some life into the Biancocelesti. The Italian striker, returning from injury, had a couple of dangerous efforts saved by Jan Oblak, but it was Samuel Lino who ultimately doubled Atletico’s lead in the 70th minute. The Brazilian winger unleashed a stunning volley from outside the box that swerved past Reina and into the top corner, leaving the Lazio goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
The final 20 minutes were a tame affair, with neither side able to add to the scoreline. Atletico, content with their comfortable lead, saw out the remaining time to claim a deserved victory.
The win means Atletico finished top of the group with 13 points, while Lazio settled for second place with 10 points. The Colchoneros will now wait for the Champions League draw on Monday, December 18th, to discover their opponents in the Round of 16.
Atletico Madrid vs Lazio: Match Highlights (14/12/2023)
1st half
- 25′ GOAL! Atletico Madrid 1-0 Lazio: Griezmann pounces on a loose ball in the box after a failed Lazio clearance and slots it past Pepe Reina for the opener.
- 32′ CLOSE! Angel Correa’s curling shot from just outside the box goes inches wide of the Lazio goalpost.
- 40′ SAVED! Jan Oblak makes a diving save to deny Ciro Immobile’s header from a dangerous Lazio free-kick.
2nd half
- 58′ SUBSTITUTION: Ciro Immobile enters the pitch for Lazio, injecting some attacking impetus.
- 65′ CHANCE! Immobile tests Oblak with a powerful shot from inside the box, but the Atletico keeper parries it away.
- 70′ GOAL! Atletico Madrid 2-0 Lazio: Samuel Lino unleashes a stunning volley from outside the box that swerves past Reina and into the top corner.
- 82′ SAVED! Oblak denies Immobile again, this time with a reflex stop from close range.
- 90’+2′ Full time: Atletico Madrid secure a 2-0 victory and top spot in Group E.
Key highlights
- Griezmann’s composure and Lino’s stunning volley were the defining moments of the match.
- Atletico’s strong defense and Oblak’s saves kept Lazio at bay.
- Lazio lacked their usual attacking spark and struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Additional notes
- These highlights provide a brief overview of the key moments in the match.
- You can find more detailed highlights, including replays and player reactions, on various online platforms.
Samuel Lino: The Undisputed Man of the Match
The Wanda Metropolitano erupted in thunderous applause as Samuel Lino, the young Brazilian winger, received the Man of the Match award after Atletico Madrid’s 2-0 triumph over Lazio. And it was no surprise. Lino was a constant menace throughout the match, terrorizing the Lazio defense with his blistering pace and dribbling skills.
Lino’s impact wasn’t just about statistics. He was the embodiment of Atletico’s relentless energy and attacking intent. He tirelessly chased down every loose ball, harried defenders, and created space for his teammates with his intelligent movement. His performance was a masterclass in wing play, showcasing his ability to combine speed, skill, and composure on the big stage.
But the moment that truly etched Lino’s name in the match’s history came in the 70th minute. With the score tied 1-0, he received the ball just outside the box, seemingly in a harmless position. However, Lino unleashed a thunderous volley that swerved past a diving Pepe Reina and nestled into the top corner. It was a goal of pure brilliance, a moment of individual magic that left everyone in awe.
Lino’s performance was a testament to his talent and potential. At just 22 years old, he is already proving himself to be a key player for Atletico Madrid, and his star is only on the rise. The Man of the Match award was a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding display, and it’s safe to say that Atletico fans will be singing his name for a long time to come.
Coaches React to Atletico Madrid’s Triumph over Lazio: Simeone Elated, Sarri Disappointed
Diego Simeone (Atletico Madrid manager)
“I’m very happy with the performance and the result,” a visibly pleased Simeone declared. “We controlled the game from start to finish, and we created some good chances. We could have scored more, but I’m satisfied with the two goals.”
Simeone praised his team’s defensive solidity, singling out Jan Oblak for special praise. “Oblak was fantastic tonight,” he said. “He made some important saves, especially in the second half when Lazio were pushing for an equalizer. He’s a world-class goalkeeper, and he’s been crucial for us all season.”
The Argentine manager also acknowledged Samuel Lino’s Man of the Match performance. “Lino was sensational tonight,” Simeone said. “He was a constant threat down the right wing, and his goal was a moment of pure quality. He’s a young player with a lot of potential, and I’m delighted with his progress.”
Looking ahead to the Champions League knockout stages, Simeone was confident but cautious. “We’re happy to be top of the group, but we know that the real challenge starts now,” he said. “We’ll face a tough opponent in the Round of 16, but we’ll be ready. We’re a strong team, and we have the belief that we can go far in this competition.”
Maurizio Sarri (Lazio manager)
A visibly disappointed Sarri admitted that his team was outplayed by Atletico. “We weren’t at our best tonight,” he conceded. “We were too passive in the first half, and we never really got into the game. Atletico were the better team, and they deserved to win.”
Sarri defended his decision to rotate his squad, given that Lazio had already secured Europa League qualification. “I wanted to give some of my other players a chance to play,” he explained. “But it didn’t work out as planned. We’ll learn from this experience and come back stronger next time.”
Sarri also praised Atletico’s performance. “They were very organized and disciplined,” he said. “They made it difficult for us to create chances, and they took their chances when they came. They’re a well-coached team with some very talented players, and I wish them all the best in the knockout stages.”
Overall, the reactions from both coaches reflected the outcome of the match. Simeone was understandably elated with his team’s victory and confident about their chances in the Champions League knockout stages. Sarri, on the other hand, was disappointed with his team’s performance but took responsibility for the defeat. Both coaches will have plenty to ponder as they prepare for their next challenges.
