and Lazio came in 10th again. Ottavio played 31 league games with 1 goal (Casale in a 2-1 win). The highlight was a 4-0 home win over Milan while Lazio lost the first derby and drew the second 3-3 after being down 0-3.
In the following season, under Czech manager Walter Alt, Lazio faced a tragic turn of events. On January 20, during a home game against Torino, Ottavio suffered an injury to his nose. He briefly left the field but returned five minutes later to contribute to Silvio Piola’s equalizer. Unfortunately, what seemed like a minor injury became serious when it got infected. After being hospitalized with high fever and complications from his knee infection, he tragically passed away two weeks later at just 27 years old.
Fantoni’s untimely death left behind two young daughters who had already lost their mother earlier. In his last season with Lazio, he made an impact by playing in 13 league games and scoring once against Fiorentina as Lazio finished positively in fifth place.
Ottavio Fantoni also represented Italy on the international stage due to his Tuscan heritage; he earned one cap against Greece on March 24,1934, contributing to Italy’s victory.
The legacy of the Fantoni family is significant within Lazio’s history: Ottavio played a total of 109 matches scoring four goals; Joāo Fantoni I had an impressive record of 113 appearances with thirty-eight goals; Leonízio Fantoni III contributed twenty-five appearances and nine goals; while Orlando Fantoni added eight appearances and two goals years later.
Ottavio was well-regarded by fans for his combination of skillful play and relentless work ethic on the pitch—qualities that endeared him deeply to supporters during his time at Lazio. Known affectionately as Nininho in Brazil and simply as Ottavio in Italy (where he was referred to as Fantoni II), he remains remembered not only for his contributions on-field but also for the tragedy that marked his life too soon.
As we reflect on these memories this week—both joyous victories and somber losses—we honor those who have shaped our beloved club’s history through their dedication both on and off the pitch.The article reflects on significant matches and events in the history of Lazio, a prominent football club in Italy. It highlights memorable victories against rivals such as Milan and Inter, a controversial draw with Juventus, and an unfortunate incident involving referee decisions during a match against Bari.
Matches of the Week
The article details several key fixtures from different years:
- February 3, 1957: A dramatic 3-3 draw between Juventus and Lazio marred by questionable officiating.
- February 3, 1974: Lazio’s dominant performance resulting in a convincing 3-0 win over Vicenza.
- February 5, 2017: A remarkable game where Marco Parolo scored four goals leading to a resounding victory for Lazio over Pescara (6-2).
- February 5, 2004: In the Coppa Italia semi-final first leg, Lazio managed to hold off Milan for a crucial away win (2-1).
- February 6, 1994: An exciting comeback victory for Lazio against Inter (2-1).
Match In Focus
A detailed account is provided of the thrilling encounter on February 4, 1996 between Lazio and Bari that ended with a scoreline of 4-3. The match was characterized by dubious refereeing decisions leading to multiple penalties awarded to both teams.
In Memory: Octavio Fantoni II
The article pays tribute to Octavio Fantoni II who tragically passed away at just age twenty-seven due to complications following an injury sustained during play. His legacy is remembered through his contributions at both club level with Lazio and internationally with Italy.
Birthdays This Week
A list of notable players associated with Lazio whose birthdays fall within this week is included.
this piece serves as both a nostalgic reflection on past glories and tragedies associated with the club while also honoring its historical figures.
