After a somewhat turbulent start to the season, Lazio appears to be finding its wings, metaphorically speaking, and is now poised for a definitive ascent. The recent clash against Juventus, a game that often serves as a litmus test for Serie A ambitions, proved to be a pivotal moment. While renewed defensive solidity and midfield balance—thanks in part to the inclusion of Basic—have been crucial, the true architects of this burgeoning revival are the dynamic duo on the flanks: Gustav Isaksen and Mattia Zaccagni.
The Winged Wizards Take Center Stage
For Danish winger Gustav Isaksen, the Juventus fixture marked his first start, and he embraced the occasion with the vigor of a player determined to leave an indelible mark. His performance was not merely good; it was arguably the best on the pitch, signaling a significant turning point for the young talent. Mattia Zaccagni, the captain, has been a consistent performer throughout the season, but against the formidable Bianconeri, he elevated his game, delivering a performance characterized by exceptional teamwork—precisely the kind of dedication Maurizio Sarri demands from his squad.
Sarri`s Tactical Ingenuity: The Art of «Externalization»
With two wingers now operating at such an elevated level, creating chances and weaving offensive patterns, the occasional struggles of the central strikers seem less daunting. Ciro Immobile, the once prolific goal machine, is no longer the linchpin he once was, and new signing Castellanos found himself sidelined due to injury after a promising start. This necessitated a shift in approach, bringing Dia into the role of the primary striker—a player renowned for his industrious `target man` qualities rather than a relentless goal tally. Dia’s ability to hold up play and work tirelessly for the team, however, perfectly complements the strengths of the speedy and technically gifted Isaksen and Zaccagni.
Sarri`s strategy of «externalizing» the offensive game—pushing the creative burden onto the flanks—was initially born of necessity. Yet, as demonstrated against Juventus, it has rapidly evolved into a formidable strength. On that Sunday evening at the Olimpico, Dia was frequently seen operating deeper than the two wide attackers, creating space and drawing defenders, allowing Isaksen and Zaccagni to exploit the channels. When these two are in full flight, as they were against Juventus, their blend of pace, dribbling, and vision leaves few parallels in Serie A. It’s a pragmatic yet brilliant solution from the «Comandante,» embracing the tools at his disposal to sculpt a new offensive identity for the Biancocelesti.
«Sarri`s `externalization` of the offensive game might sound like corporate jargon, but on the pitch, it translates to pure, unadulterated wing wizardry. It`s a testament to adapting strategy when your conventional central heating system isn`t quite firing.»
Converting Promise into Goals: The Next Frontier
For this revitalized offensive formula to truly solidify its place among Italy`s elite, one crucial ingredient is still somewhat lacking: goals from the wingers themselves. Zaccagni has already contributed two crucial goals this season (against Verona and Genoa), showcasing his ability to finish. Isaksen, despite his outstanding performance against Juventus, is yet to open his scoring account, though it`s worth noting that the Juve match was arguably his true debut in a leading role this season. Interestingly, his predecessor, Matteo Cancellieri, has already netted three times, a testament to the fact that this «externalization» of offense was a nascent idea even before its current emphasis, and one that can thrive regardless of the specific personnel.
With alternatives like Cancellieri and the evergreen Pedro—who notched 14 goals last season, equaling Castellanos—Lazio possesses enviable depth on the wings. From these wide areas, beyond merely developing play and creating chances, must now come a consistent stream of goals. This influx is absolutely essential for Lazio to make a definitive leap in quality, transforming a season that began with palpable frustration into one of ambition and achievement. Sarri`s initial focus on defensive solidity was the necessary foundation, but to truly soar, the Eagles need to find the back of the net more regularly. The Juventus match, where chances were generated without sacrificing defensive integrity—a stark contrast to earlier games where attacking prowess often came at the expense of stability—clearly illustrates the path forward. This balanced approach is the future.