Adam Marusic scored a dramatic late winner as Lazio edged Sassuolo 2-1 at the Stadio Olimpico, securing their first Serie A victory of 2026.

The hosts looked determined to end their winless run early and wasted little time taking the lead. Just two minutes into the match, Daniel Maldini broke a 10-month scoring drought by finishing from close range to give Lazio the perfect start.

Lazio continued to dominate the opening stages. Danilo Cataldi forced a save from distance, while Gustav Isaksen and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru both failed to hit the target as Sassuolo struggled to contain the early pressure.

Gradually, however, the visitors began to grow into the game. They nearly equalised in the 27th minute when goalkeeper Edoardo Motta produced a fine save to tip away M’Bala Nzola’s powerful, deflected effort.

That warning proved significant, as Sassuolo soon found their equaliser. Armand Laurienté capped off a slick passing move with a superb strike into the top corner, bringing the visitors level before the break.

The second half proved far less eventful as both teams struggled to create clear opportunities.

Ismael Koné had a chance for Sassuolo but fired over from inside the area, while Dele-Bashiru wasted a promising opportunity for Lazio with an even wilder effort that sailed into the stands.

Mattia Zaccagni later tested Arijanet Muric with a curling attempt, though the Sassuolo goalkeeper dealt with it comfortably.

The game opened up again in the closing stages. Isaksen and Matteo Cancellieri both came close for Lazio, with Muric tipping Cancellieri’s long-range drive to safety. At the other end, Motta was called into action twice, producing a brilliant double save to deny Kristian Thorstvedt and Josh Doig.

Those interventions proved decisive.

Deep into injury time, substitute Adam Marusic rose highest in the penalty area to head home his first goal of the season, sealing a dramatic late victory for Lazio.

The result ended Lazio’s run without a league win since the end of January, while Sassuolo—who had won the reverse fixture 1-0—missed the chance to complete only their second Serie A double over the Roman side. ⚽