Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru marked a memorable night at the Stadio Olimpico, scoring his first goal of the season as Lazio played out an enthralling 2-2 draw with Atalanta BC in the Coppa Italia semi-final first leg. The result keeps the tie finely balanced ahead of the return in Bergamo.
Bashiru’s impact was immediate after the break. In the 47th minute, the Nigerian midfielder received a clever pass from Daniel Maldini, calmly assessed the situation, and spotted goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi off his line. With perfect composure, he delicately chipped the ball over the keeper to break the deadlock, his first goal of the campaign across all competitions and a major confidence boost.
Atalanta responded within minutes, as Mario Pašalić reacted fastest to a rebound from a save to fire home the equalizer in the 51st minute. Both sides then pressed for a winner, with tactical substitutions injecting fresh energy into the contest.
Late drama ensued in the final quarter. Lazio thought they had taken the lead in the 87th minute when Boulaye Dia pounced on a loose ball following a scramble inside the box. Yet Atalanta refused to be denied, and in stoppage time, Yunus Musah found space and converted to level the match at 2-2, silencing the home crowd and preserving Atalanta’s hopes heading into the second leg.
Bashiru’s performance went beyond his goal. He was heavily involved in Lazio’s build-up play, showing vision and control throughout the 90 minutes. Stats from the game: 52 touches, 41 passes with 39 accurate, 3 successful dribbles from 3, 1 shot, and 1 assist. His display highlighted why he has become a key figure for the club this season.
With everything to play for, the second leg on 22nd April promises another tense showdown as Lazio chase a sixth Coppa Italia title, while Atalanta aim for their first triumph since 1963.
