Lazio protagonists, Lazio Champions | Gazzetta.it

Not just Ciro Immobile. Lazio winning the first round of the Champions League round of 16 against Bayern Munich also features Matteo Guendouzi and Gustav Isaksen as protagonists. Two signings from last summer who are increasingly establishing themselves as starters in Sarri’s team. Especially the 24-year-old French midfielder, who has now become a pillar for the Biancocelesti. Guendouzi, albeit with a different interpretation of the role, took on Sergei Milinkovic’s legacy. But Isaksen too, especially in recent weeks, is showing that he can be more than an alternative in the Biancoceleste trident. The 22-year-old Danish winger, after his exploit in the victory on 29 December against Frosinone (goal and assist), has had more space from the first minute, especially in recent weeks due to Zaccagni’s stoppage (with Felipe Anderson moved to the left).

AT THE TOP

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On the starry night at the Olimpico Guendouzi and Isaksen proved to be fundamental in Lazio capable of overturning every prediction against their prestigious opponents. The former Marseille player moved across the board. With energy and personality he was one of the cornerstones of Sarri’s team. Compared to Milinkovic, he highlights a technique that needs to be refined. But his support in the gears of the Sarrian maneuver is proving to be increasingly precious. Against Bayern the Frenchman was able to give his best both in the covering and setting phases. Always with clarity and concreteness. He ensured liveliness on the right of the Isaksen trident. From the start, when Lazio was most worried about not suffering the Bavarian assault, the Dane always looked for an opening to give depth to the maneuver. Even getting to the shot. In a face-to-face meeting with Neuer, perhaps betrayed by a certain frenzy, he allowed himself to be hypnotized by the German goalkeeper. But the top scorer of the last Danish championship then had the merit of winning the penalty that gave Lazio the very important victory.

SATISFACTION

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Guendouzi, chosen by UEFA as man of the match, wanted to include his merits among those of the team while already looking towards the next championship match, Sunday’s match against Bologna, at the Olimpico. “The MVP award goes to all my teammates, it’s the first time I’ve won it and I’ll keep it close to me in bed… – the midfielder’s words to Lazio Style -. Against Bayern we gave everything and this is the most important thing. If we play like this we can win many games. We knew it would be a difficult race, but also that we could win it. The most important thing now is to play, fight and win together. By staying like this we can win other matches in the league too, starting from the one against Bologna.” And Isaksen wanted to underline the emotions of the feat against Bayern. “We defended well, were organized, we had many chances. Olimpico roar after Immobile’s goal? Great atmosphere, I like the stadium, the fans are too strong.”