Lazio coach Marco Baroni was satisfied with the result and overall performance as his men overcame Venezia on the first Serie A matchday of the season.
The visitors stunned the Stadio Olimpico by taking the lead early on, but Taty Castellanos grabbed the equalizer and then won a spot kick converted by Mattia Zaccagni to turn the result upside-down. A late own goal from Giorgio Altare sealed a 3-1 victory for the Biancocelesti who started the campaign on the right foot.
Hence, Baroni began his post-match press conference (via LazioNews24) by praising the team’s display as well as the warm home crowd.
I have to thank the lads. Not all of them are in optimal condition yet, but the attitude is what matters. The players did very well even in difficult situations. We were trailing early on but we applied the pressure. I really have to thank the team for their attitude and also thank the welcoming crowd. It was truly a great evening.
We know that there has been a drastic change in the squad, but the team is ready and well-prepared. There is significant margins for improvement, and we saw the new signings who have given a good first impression.
Castellanos was named MVP of the contest, but Baroni is still expecting the Argentine to add more tools to his game.
Castellanos is not a surprise, he is a strong player who needs to play. Last season, the team had a legend who made history at the club [Immobile], this term, he will have more space. The team will also work to support him. Today we fed him with crosses inside the box, but I want him to break through from the outside too.
The 60-year-old also discussed Fisayo Dele-Bashiru who made a good impression on his debut. The coach notes the Nigerian has great potential, but must gel into the team.
Dele-Bashiru has great potential. He is a lad who must understand our football and to do so he must train and play. We will give him the opportunity to do so. We also have other good midfielders who are improving. The attitude was important.
He has to improve his posture, he is often closed by the opposition who doesn’t give him the chance to drive forward. But when he opens his shoulder, he is devastating. He has to become a ball-winner, but it’s not easy. It’s a complete upheaval, but he made an extraordinary contribution.