Pedro’s Last-Ditch Strike Downs Porto as Lazio Preserve Flawless Europa League Record | OneFootball

Lazio veteran Pedro emerged as the ultimate hero once more, scoring the last-ditch strike that earned the Biancocelesti a precious victory over Porto in the fourth matchday of the Europa League group stage.

Romagnoli Puts Lazio Ahead

Both sides had their chances in the first half. The Dragao almost stunned the Stadio Olimpico in the 33rd minute with a swift counterattack, but Fabio Vieira was denied by the post. Nevertheless, it was the home side that took the lead in the final play before halftime. Pedro’s corner kick was redirected by Taty Castellanos towards the mouth of the goal, allowing Alessio Romagnoli to nod it home from close range.

Porto Find Equalizer

The Aquile were hoping to maintain their lead and coast safely towards victory, but Porto managed to find the equalizer with a clever play. A long ball allowed Galeno to sneak behind Loum Tchaouna before sending a backpass that was met by Stephen Eustáquio who stormed into the box and wrongfooted Ivan Provedel with a low drive.

Lazio almost restored their lead immediately, but Matias Vecino couldn’t hit the target with a close-range header. However, Lazio insisted on sending the crowds home happy, so they left it until the 92nd to find an extremely late winner.

Pedro the Hero

Gustav Isaksen’s inswinger evaded everyone, eventually finding Pedro in front of goal. While the Spaniard’s first touch wasn’t the neatest, it still served the cause, as it allowed him to unleash an unstoppable shot past the hapless Diogo Costa, and kickstart wild celebrations in the stands.

Hence, Lazio remain on top of the Europa League table, as they become the only club to boast a perfect record after winning all of their first four outings.

Lazio 2-1 Porto

45’+5′ Romagnoli (L), 66′ Eustaquio (P), Pedro (L) 90’+2′.

Lazio (4-2-3-1):  Mandas; Marusic, Gigot (67′ Gila), Romagnoli, Nuno Tavares (88′ Pellegrini); Guendouzi, Vecino; Tchaouna (67′ Rovella), Pedro, Zaccagni (72′ Isaksen); Castellanos (67′ Dia). Coach Baroni.

Porto (4-2-3-1): Diogo Costa; Martim (61′ Joao Mario), Perez, Djalò, Moura; Varela (61′ Nico), Eustaquio; F. Vieira (83′ André Franco), Namaso (61′ Pepe), Galeno; Omorodion (76′ Gül). Coach Vitor Bruno.

Referee: Kabakov (BUL)