Eight wins, one draw and the best defence, Lazio are defying expectations and sending a clear message to Inter. There is a degree of underestimation, even arrogance, in the way Lazio’s top position is being assessed. While discussions about Inter’s rivals focus on Roma, Como or Milan, the capital side keep winning and force the Nerazzurri to react.
The numbers speak for themselves: eight wins and a draw in nine matches, 22 goals scored and only seven conceded. Lazio have the third-best attack and the strongest defence in the league, despite having played one match more. These results show a team in excellent physical and psychological shape.
The secret lies in collective play. Everyone runs, defends, attacks and sacrifices for one another. Captain Zaccagni stands out as one of the key figures, while coach Gennaro Gattuso has brought the discipline and seriousness that characterised his former Milan side.
The 6-0 win over Sassuolo, even though Lazio missed two penalties, was another warning to rivals, following the 3-0 triumph over Juventus in Turin. Paradoxically, Lazio started the season without significant reinforcements and with departures from the squad, which meant expectations were much lower.
However, with no European commitments, the team has the opportunity to focus entirely on the league. Therefore, Lazio are no longer simply a surprise, but a contender that must be taken seriously in the race for the top.