Lazio 2-2 Brugge: Lazio qualify into knock-out, as Correa, Immobile score

Ciro Immobile-Lazio

Lazio were held to a draw by ten-men Club Brugge in their Champions League match on Tuesday. The Italian Lazio who are already qualified for the next round failed to take advantage of its numerical advantage to defeat the Belgian side who battled Lazio to a deserved draw.

With a chance of topping the group still available, Lazio coach Simone Inzaghi named an almost identical XI to the one that played last weekend against Spezia.

The Italian side started the game rather well and were ahead inside 12 minutes through a Joachim Correa’s goal. The striker who partnered Ciro Immobile up front was on hand to tap in into the net after Simon Mignolet had saved Luis Alberto’s shot.

But their lead did not last as Ruud Vormer’s easy finish restored parity three minutes later. The Dutchman was on hand to slam home Lang’s spilled shot and restore parity in the 15th minute.

The game continued to be played at a fast pace and by the 27th minute, Ciro Immobile put his side ahead from the penalty spot.

The Italian was brought down in the box by Mata following a run into the box, leaving the referee with no chance than to point to the spot. Simon Mignolet so good in saving penalties was unable to keep out the Lazio captain’s effort, diving the other way as the Italians retook the lead.

Things got more complicated for the hosts in the 39th minute when Sobol was sent off for a second bookable offence, having already seen yellow in the early stages of the match.

But the visitors could not capitalise on their numerical advantage, allowing their host to equalise in the 76th minute through Vanaken well-taken header.

The result means that Lazio finished second in the group while Club Brugge who sit third with eight points proceed to the Europa League.

The home team are next in action against Antwerp in the Belgian top-flight while Lazio visits Hellas Verona on Saturday in the Serie A.