Serie A’s top sides decided to rest many of their first team players in the third round of the Italian Cup, and enjoyed mixed fortunes as a consequence.

It seems nothing can stop Lazio, who continue to impress, despite putting out an understrength team against Empoli. Giuseppe Pancaro put the Serie A leaders ahead, and Simone Inzaghi doubled their advantage from the penalty spot. This 2-0 win means that Lazio have not lost since the opening day of the season in any competition.

Neighbours Roma could only manage a draw in their first leg with Serie B side Triestina. All they had to show for their efforts was a scorching 25-yard free-kick from Gabriel Batistuta four minutes from time, just when it seemed Triestina would claim a major scalp. Matteo Beretta had earlier put the home side in front, bundling home the rebound from his own penalty.

There was no such luck for Inter, however. Hector Cuper will have to overcome a 1-0 deficit against Bari in two weeks time if his side is to progress into the next round. Gaetano D’Agostino was the matchwinner for Bari with a headed goal in the 25th minute.

Juventus face Reggina in Thursday’s game.