An unexpected scenario unfolded at the “Olympic” stadium during the intense duel between Lazio and Juventus, a match that could be pivotal in the race for a Champions League berth as the season nears its conclusion.

The “Sky Blue” team and the “Old Lady” ended their clash in a 1:1 draw, with the hosts narrowly avoiding defeat thanks to Matijas Vesino’s goal in stoppage time. Particularly notable was Montenegrin midfielder Vasilije Adžić, who had a fleeting appearance as Juve coach Igor Tudor opted to substitute him just ten minutes after introducing him!

Such occurrences, while not common in football, can be quite surprising, and Adžić was visibly astonished when the fourth official displayed the number 17—worn by the former Buducnost standout—as he prepared to leave the field.

Adžić entered the game in the 76th minute replacing Randal Kolo Muani, who had given the Turin side the lead, and just ten minutes later, Dušan Vlahović took the field in his place. These changes were part of Tudor’s strategy, having to reorganize after Pierre Kalulu received a direct red card in the 60th minute.

Alongside Adžić, Francisco Conceição also concluded his match after coming on as a substitute at the beginning of the second half (he was replaced by Federico Gati).

Unfortunately for both players, the tactical adjustments did not yield success, as Vesino’s last-minute goal secured a draw for Juve. This means that Juventus must work harder in the final two matches to assure their place in the Champions League.

Following the derby, Tudor shared brief comments regarding Adžić and Conceição:

“I regret my decision and I apologize. However, it was necessary due to our height disadvantage. I made an unpopular choice, but it was in the team’s best interest, and I’d do it again,” Tudor stated.

If Juventus had managed to maintain their lead, it would likely have been a significant step towards securing fourth place in the Serie A standings, which guarantees access to Europe’s elite next season.

As it stands, Juve and Lazio are tied for 4th place, but Juventus holds a game and a point advantage over Roma, who will host Atalanta on Monday. A victory for Roma would see them overtake their rivals.

Bologna is still in contention for a Champions League spot, as is Milan, who they defeated 2:1 at San Siro on Friday after a comeback.

Bologna trails Lazio and Juventus by two points, while Milan is four points behind, making their chances of surpassing these teams slim.

“We accept this point as potentially valuable, despite feeling regret for not clinching the win. We gave our all under the circumstances,” Tudor remarked.

Adam Marušić played 65 minutes for Lazio.

“If we had scored earlier, I believe we would have won. We are in the hunt and confident about reaching the Champions League, although it’s clear we need to secure more victories at home,” commented Lazio coach Marco Baroni.

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