Lazio edge past city rivals Roma to book Coppa Italia semis

Lazio beat AS Roma 1-0 on Wednesday to qualify for the semi-finals of the Italian Cup

The highly anticipated Derby della Capitale, always an intense affair, unfolded amidst numerous player absences and injuries for both Roma and Lazio.

Early in the game, Taty Castellanos capitalised on a defensive error, nearly putting Lazio ahead, only to be denied by Gianluca Mancini's deflection. 

Lazio's dominance continued in the second half, and six minutes into the second period, they brok the deadlock.

Dean Huijsen fouled Castellanos in the box, Mattia Zaccagni made no mistake in front of Rui Patricio to open the lead for Maurizio Sarri's men.

Rather than sparking a Roma revival, this setback spurred Lazio to intensify their attack, with Rui Patricio making crucial saves.

Despite late opportunities for Roma, including a chance for Andrea Belotti well-saved by goalkeeper Christos Mandas, they couldn't break through. 

The match ended with Pedro receiving a second yellow card in a heated altercation, leading to suspensions for both him and Luca Pellegrini in the upcoming semi-final. 

Romelu Lukaku's attempts at an equaliser fell short, and the tension escalated further with Sardar Azmoun receiving a red card for unsportsmanlike conduct.

In a post-match climax, Gianluca Mancini was also sent off for dissent, adding a dramatic conclusion to this eventful Derby della Capitale.