Lazio defeated Frosinone 2-1 in a final pre-season friendly at the Stadio Benito Stirpe, secured by a late penalty from captain Mattia Zaccagni. The match served as a critical dress rehearsal for both clubs ahead of their respective Coppa Italia debuts scheduled for mid-August, as reported by La Lazio Siamo Noi and TMW.
Tactical Setups and Match Progression
Both managers opted for a 4-3-3 formation to test their squads. Frosinone manager Alvini fielded a lineup largely composed of players from the previous season, with the notable exception of new signing Amey. Lazio, managed by Gattuso, featured a midfield blend of technical quality from Rovella and Taylor alongside the physical presence of Dele-Bashiru.
Frosinone opened the scoring in the 12th minute through Giacomo Calò, who converted from close range following a scramble in the box. Lazio responded in the 22nd minute when Zaccagni leveled the score after a cross from Marusic. The intensity remained high throughout the first half, with Frosinone’s Fini forcing a key save from Lazio goalkeeper Mandas, according to sosfanta.com.
The Decisive Final Minutes
The second half saw a decrease in tempo, though both sides continued to push for a winner. Lazio’s Nicolò Rovella nearly broke the deadlock with a free kick, but Frosinone goalkeeper Palmisani denied the attempt with a “miraculous” save, per TMW reporting. The match was ultimately decided in the 88th minute when Frosinone’s Zerbin committed a foul on Lazzari inside the penalty area.
Zaccagni stepped to the spot and converted the penalty, securing his brace and the 2-1 victory for the visitors. In the closing moments of stoppage time, Mandas once again proved decisive, stopping a final effort from Zerbin to preserve the lead.
Pro Tip: Tactical Flexibility
During the final ten minutes of the match, Lazio transitioned from their starting 4-3-3 to a 3-4-3 formation.
Coppa Italia Outlook
This result marks the conclusion of the summer friendly schedule for both teams. The competitive season begins on August 16 for both clubs:
- Frosinone: Hosts Juve Stabia at the Stadio Stirpe at 18:00.
- Lazio: Faces Mantova at the Stadio Olimpico at 21:15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the winning goal for Lazio?
Mattia Zaccagni scored the winning goal via a penalty kick in the 88th minute.
What were the final starting formations for both teams?
Both Frosinone and Lazio began the match in a 4-3-3 formation, as corroborated by sosfanta.com.
When do these teams begin their official Coppa Italia campaigns?
Both teams are scheduled to play their first official matches of the tournament on August 16.
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