Biancocelesti Aim to End 27-Year European Trophy Drought
Lazio's impressive start in the Europa League has fans hopeful for their first European title since 1999, as they dominate their group and eye a deep run in the competition.
Lazio has achieved a remarkable milestone this season by winning five of their first six Europa League matches, a feat not accomplished since the 1997-98 UEFA Cup under Sven-Goran Eriksson. This strong performance has solidified their position at the top of the group, bringing them closer to direct qualification for the knockout stages.
In the current campaign, Lazio has secured victories against Dynamo Kyiv, Nice, Twente, Porto, and Ajax, with their only setback being a draw against Ludogorets. Accumulating 16 points, the Biancocelesti lead their group and need just one more win from the remaining two matches to ensure direct advancement.
The last time Lazio showcased such dominance in European competitions was during the 1997-98 UEFA Cup. That season, propelled by the brilliance of Pavel Nedved and Roberto Mancini, they reached the final but fell 3-0 to Inter Milan at the Parc des Princes. Inter's squad featured stars like Diego Simeone, Ronaldo, Javier Zanetti, and Ivan Zamorano.
However, Lazio didn't have to wait long for European glory. The following season, they clinched the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup by defeating Mallorca, marking their first continental triumph. Now, in their 21st Europa League appearance, Lazio aspires to end a 27-year wait and secure their maiden title in Europe's secondary club competition.