Apollon Limassol coach Christakis Christoforou has suggested that Lazio boss Vladimir Petkovic "underestimated" his team ahead of last night's Europa League encounter at Tsirion Stadium.

The Cyriot side battled to a hard-earned point on their home patch, which means that they are three points behind Group J leaders Trabzonspor.

"This evening we played against the strongest side in the group, not to mention the holders of the Coppa Italia," Christoforou told reporters.

"This season the Italian clubs have even more motivation to do well, as the Europa League final will be in Turin. That's why I am so happy with this draw.

"The result was deserved and achieved thanks to the grit of our players and the support of our fans. Vladimir Petkovic didn't expect to see such a strong Apollon. Perhaps he underestimated us."

Lazio are second in the group on five points, two off the top.