Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was on the scoresheet as Lazio secured a 3-1 victory over Chuba Akpom’s Ajax on Thursday, confirming their place in the next phase of the Europa League.
Lazio took the lead in the first half when Loum Tchaouna capitalized on a midfield error to beat Ajax goalkeeper Remko Pasveer with a composed finish. Ajax responded after the break through Bertrand Traore, who fired into the top corner following a goalmouth scramble.
However, Lazio restored their advantage just five minutes later when substitute Mattia Zaccagni delivered a pinpoint cross, allowing Dele-Bashiru to tap in at the far post.
The Italian side sealed the win with a spectacular third goal. Nuno Tavares initiated a quick counterattack from his own half, setting up Tchaouna, whose clever back-heel flick found Pedro. The veteran forward curled a stunning effort into the far top corner with his left foot.
Ajax pushed for a response late on, with Akpom forcing a fine save from Lazio goalkeeper Christos Mandas and hitting the crossbar. Despite their efforts, the Dutch side could not find a way back into the game.
Lazio’s dominant performance keeps them unbeaten in the tournament and secures their progression top of the pile with 16 points, while Ajax are 11th with 10 points.
© Bold Media Innovations & Creative Hub Limited. All rights reserved. If sharing, kindly credit Bold Sports as the source and include a link to the original post. Unauthorised use is prohibited.