Lazio coach Marco Baroni was happy with his team’s victory over FC Twente on the third matchday of the Europa League group stage. The Biancocelesti took full advantage of their numerical superiority following Lars Unnerstall’s dismissal, beating their Dutch hosts by two unanswered goals courtesy of Pedro and Gustav Isaksen.
Strong Lazio Character
In his post-match press conference (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Baroni applauded his players for showing strong character as well as great maturity as they navigated the contest in the right direction.
It was a areat display. The numerical superiority was deserved for the way we approached the game. Thanks to our high pressure, we were able to cause havoc in the final third. The team always stayed in the game. These are the most difficult games to win
They made a lot of fouls, but we had so much character. So I must congratulare the boys. We must continue to work hard but we already have a solid and united group. I try to give everyone an opportunity because they deserve it.
Baroni Praises Gigot
The 61-year-old reserved special praise for Samuel Gigot who put on a solid display on his Lazio debut, as well as Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
I like Gigot, he’s an aggressive defender. We’re happy to have signed another strong player. Today, he didn’t want to leave the pitch even though he had cramps. He’s an extraordinary guy who has fit into the group perfectly. His career path speaks for itself.
Dele-Bashiru also did well. He needs these games, as he must start thinking faster. He played well with the ball, often driving forward. Today he played vertically and doesn’t hold back. In any case, everyone played a great game, even Tchaouna. Now we have to recover quickly because in two days we have a complicated game [against Genoa].
Lazio on Top of Europa League Standings
Baroni is also pleased to see his team on top of the Europa League table with a perfect record.
The team is doing well at the moment. It’s a wonderful competition and a great opportunity for us. We have to seize it game after game. We have to score more points, but I don’t want to say how many. They’re all difficult games.
Lazzari’s Return
Finally, the manager confirmed Manuel Lazzarri will soon return from injury, but he’s satisfied with the performances of his other full-backs.
Lazzari is close to returning. I’m confident we can get him back soon enough. He will have a medical check-up on Monday, so now he has to push a bit, but we’re not taking any risks.
We need the full-backs to push. With Lazzari and Nuno Tavares we have a strong support to the attack. [Luca] Pellegrini has been doing well over the past few matches.