Danilho Doekhi delivers decisive assist as Lazio maintain perfect start

Danilho Doekhi played a decisive role as Lazio beat Udinese 2-1 on Monday evening to preserve their perfect start to the Serie A season. The Dutch centre-back supplied the cross for Albert Gudmundsson’s winning header with 10 minutes remaining.

Kenneth Taylor helped create the goal, finding Doekhi in space on the left before the defender delivered for the former AZ forward. Doekhi’s contribution capped an impressive display that drew acclaim from Lazio supporters, with Voetbalzone highlighting reactions that described him as “a wall” and an excellent new signing.

Lazio had fallen behind shortly after half-time when Jesper Karlström shot through the goalkeeper’s legs. Davide Frattesi equalised following another move involving Taylor, who collected the ball from substitute Tijjani Noslin and released Mattia Zaccagni to provide the assist.

Doekhi joined Lazio on a free transfer from Union Berlin during the summer and has quickly made an impression in Rome. Taylor also received praise for his intensity, ball-winning and command of midfield. The victory leaves Gennaro Gattuso’s side with nine points from their opening three league matches, placing them third behind two other teams who have also yet to drop a point.