Lazio’s Failed Comeback Ends in Bitter Europa League Exit!
Lazio was eliminated from the Europa League after losing to Bodo/Glimt on penalties, failing to reach the semifinals.
According to reports, while Manchester United staged a stunning comeback against Lyon at Old Trafford, Lazio also attempted to overturn their 2-0 first-leg defeat against Bodo/Glimt. Marco Baroni’s squad managed to win the second leg 2-0 in regulation time, but in the decisive penalty shootout, the Norwegian side prevailed 3-2, advancing to the semifinals to face Tottenham.
Lazio took an early lead in the 21st minute through Valentín Castellanos, but Bodo/Glimt’s resilient defense prevented further goals before halftime. The second half was dominated by Lazio, but missed chances and the brilliance of Bodo/Glimt’s goalkeeper pushed them closer to elimination. However, young Tiani Nzolin scored in the 93rd minute to level the aggregate score and force extra time.
In extra time, Bolye Dia scored Lazio’s third goal in the 100th minute, completing their remarkable comeback at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
Everything seemed to be going Lazio’s way until Helmersen scored for Bodo/Glimt in the 109th minute, leveling the tie again. The goal scorer was sent off in the 120th minute, but the match still went to penalties. Lazio’s players faltered, missing three of their five penalties, while Bodo/Glimt converted three to advance 3-2.