Super Eagles midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi, proved the match winner for Lazio when struggling side, Empoli, came visiting the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.
Onazi, 23, appearing only for the 15th time in all competitions this seasons, scored his first league goal of the campaign – his side’s second on the day to secure a comfortable 2-0 home win for the Romans.
His other strike came in the 3-2 victory over St-Etienne in the Europa League back in October.
The Nigerian is gradually finding his way back into the Biancocelesti first team since the appointment of Simone Inzaghi, who replaced Stefano Pioli after their heavy Derby della Capitale defeat to Roma.
Onazi started back-to-back games for Inzaghi’s team – first against Palermo, then Empoli, something which has never happened this season.
The former youth international’s presence has helped the Serie A outfit to two wins out of two – as they scored five times with two clean sheets.
Antonio Candreva slotted past Empoli goalkeeper, Alberto Pelagotti, from 12 yards for his first goal in 10 matches to open the scoring after referee Angelo Cervellera awarded the hosts a penalty, adjudging Marco Parolo’s sixth minute strike to have been blocked by the hand of Uros Kosic.
Onazi sealed three points for the home team one minute before the break by combining beautifully with German icon Miroslav Klose before shooting pass Pelagotti for the second.
Victory leaves Lazio level on points with Sassuolo and in eight place in the league table, while Empoli remain in 12th position.
It’s a trip to the Juventus Stadium next for Onazi and his Lazio teammates on Wednesday.
