Although it is safe to say that we didn’t deliver as convincing a performance as we may have liked today, we still came away with a vital 3 points that keep us in the race for Champions League football.

Match Summary

We started the game strongly when Felipe Anderson placed a perfect pass to the feet of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who sent a looping shot over the top of Consigli and into the back of the net. In the 31st minute, after a penalty was awarded via VAR, Ciro Immobile tucked away yet another goal to put the visitors 2-0 up. Then, just after play resumed for the second half, Milinkovic-Savic picked up his second goal after he nodded in a Felipe Anderson cross to put us 3 up. Soon after, matters got worse for the home side when forward Domenico Berardi was given a red card for a clumsy challenge. Lazio’s one-man advantage didn’t last long though as Adam Marusic was sent off in the 62nd after stupidly throwing an arm back. The game finished 3-0.

Player Ratings

Thomas Strakosha – 7: Although the Albanian did not have too much to do, he did pull of a good save to deny Khouma Babacar towards the end of the game.

Luiz Felipe – 8: Luiz Felipe is quickly demonstrating his ability to challenge for a place in the starting lineup. Although not as talented as De Vrij, who he replaced in the lineup, he is quickly becoming a favourite amongst fans and Inzaghi alike.

Radu – 7: The Romanian provided the experience within the defence which kept the ship running tight. Generally solid, although he did make a mistake or two.

Wallace – 8: One of the brightest performances from the Brazilian that we have seen so far this season, did well to support Strakosha on several occasions.

Lukaku – 6: The Belgian was largely ineffectual on the left, despite being given lots of space, especially in the first half. Still needs a lot of work on his game if he is to start week in, week out.

Lucas Leiva – 8: Another brilliant performance from the Brazilian, provided much needed leadership and control in the middle of the park.

Murgia – 7: A surprise start but managed to do his job competently. Didn’t have too much to do but had no glaring errors in his game.

Milinkovic-Savic – 10: Outstanding performance from the Serb saw him net two goals and prove why he is one of the hottest midfielders in the world right now. His first goal was absolutely outstanding.

Marusic – 5: Stupidly got sent off whilst we were 3-0 up, away from home, against 10-men. Struggled to make an impact before this and shows that improvement is needed in the RM position.

Felipe Anderson – 8: Finally back to his A-game, slotting in at a CF role, yet given the freedom to spread out to either wing. Provided support and supply for both the midfield and the attack.

Immobile – 7: Despite scoring from the spot, Immobile struggled to get into the game. Signs are starting to flag that he is growing tired; both physically and mentally.

Subs:

Lulic – 7: Came on for Lukaku and provided a bit more experience on the left to secure the victory.

Parolo – 7: Didn’t have too much to do after he came on for Lucas Leiva, played solidly in his half-hour on the pitch.

Nani – N/A: Came on late for Immobile but didn’t really have the time to make any impact – we had already taken our foot off of the gas at this point.

Key Points

The Wings Need Strengthening

One thing was clear in the Sassuolo match – Marusic and Lukaku are not quite ready to be starting. Both players need to add a lot to their game, they focus far too much on trying to beat players with their pace and physicality – rather than stopping to pass and move. Sure, Basta and Lulic are available but with both these lads getting on a bit, Inzaghi must look to pick up some quality additions to the wings if we are to compete in the Champions League next season.

An Alternative Striker is Needed

Ciro Immobile is on brilliant form yet signs of tiredness are starting to show in the forward. Caicedo is nowhere near the same level as Immobile – and Tounkara and Perea are looking far from Champions League quality. Inzaghi should be looking at an alternative to Immobile, one who has both skill and youth on his side. Who this is? I am not sure – but think of the quality of Icardi or Ben Yedder.

One Last Thing…

I was invited by the brilliant Lazio Lounge to feature on this week’s podcast. We discussed the game, my love of Lazio and this very blog. A big thank you to Vittorio for having me on – and I would definitely love to feature again. You can follow Lazio Lounge on Twitter here.

Listen to “Lazio Lounge: Sassuolo Lazio 0-3” on Spreaker.