Lazio’s team captain, Ciro Immobile, expressed his disapproval of Roma’s goalscorer, Gianluca Mancini, for what he perceived as a lack of decorum in celebrating the derby victory by displaying a flag deemed insulting. The Giallorossi secured a 1-0 victory at the Stadio Olimpico, courtesy of Mancini’s header from a corner delivered by Paulo Dybala.
The match, characterized by its traditional intensity between the longstanding rivals, witnessed several contentious moments, including Paulo Dybala removing his shinpad to exhibit an image of his World Cup trophy with Argentina to France international Matteo Guendouzi.
Following the conclusion of the game, Roma players congregated to celebrate beneath the Curva Sud with their fervent supporters, during which Mancini prominently brandished a large flag bearing the inscription “Anti Lazio.” Additionally, he displayed another flag featuring a depiction of a sizable rat in the colors associated with Lazio.
Immobile, in his comments to DAZN, expressed his sentiment regarding the post-match proceedings, characterizing them as somewhat disorderly. While acknowledging that such occurrences are not uncommon in derby matches, he emphasized the importance of maintaining a certain level of dignity in celebration, insinuating disparities in individuals’ approaches to such events.
Criticism was leveled against Mancini for his actions, particularly considering his status as an Italy international supposedly obligated to represent all factions impartially. However, it was noted that the Rome Derby has witnessed more egregious incidents in the past. Notably, Francesco Totti once famously revealed a shirt underneath his jersey bearing the inscription “I have purged you again.”