Baroni: "We Understand The Championship Is Tough, But When This Mentality And Unity Come Together, Everything Becomes A Bit More Manageable. With A Full Week To Prepare, I’m Sure We’ll Be Ready."

Lazio coach Marco Baroni shared his thoughts after their 1-0 victory over Cadiz. In his post-match interview, Baroni expressed concern about the match, given that it followed three games within eight or nine days, with the last one just three days prior. 

"I was concerned about this match since we had just played three games in the past eight or nine days, with the last one only three days ago. We also had a couple of intense training sessions, which clearly took a toll on the players' rhythm and legs. However, those who came on in the second half performed admirably. The key factor was our mental strength, which is crucial at this point. We're not at our best yet, but we'll get there this week. I'm pleased with the boys' effort."

Baroni mentioned that the team could have been more clinical and aggressive, particularly in finishing plays. He pointed out some missed opportunities due to a lack of precision. 

"We could have been a bit more ruthless and aggressive. We often had chances to make a pass and finish the play, but we were somewhat hesitant and lacked sharpness. I'm pleased for Castrovilli; it was his first 45 minutes, and he was eager for them. Tchaouna and Dele Bashiru made strong impacts when they came on, especially Dele Bashiru, who has quality, strength, and energy. He needs to quickly adapt to our style of play, as he can be a significant asset for us. I advised Noslin to remain composed and seek out goals with clear focus."

Baroni emphasized the importance of everyone being fully committed with a single-minded focus on performing well and giving their all. He acknowledged the challenges of the championship but believes that with the right mentality and team unity, those challenges will be easier to overcome.

"We all need to be fully motivated, with a single focus on performing well and giving our absolute best. We understand the championship is tough, but when this mentality and unity come together, everything becomes a bit more manageable."

Baroni praised Tchaouna for his goal-scoring ability, likening him to Noslin in terms of characteristics. He urged Tchaouna to play with composure and assured him that he will have the opportunity to learn and grow, even if it means making mistakes. Baroni is confident that Tchaouna will prove to be a valuable asset.

"Tchaouna has a clear eye for the goal; he shoots and strikes with confidence. He's quite similar to Noslin in terms of his qualities. He just needs to play with composure and keep his cool. We'll allow him the space to make mistakes, but always with courage. I'm confident this young man will bring us plenty of satisfaction."

Baroni shared that the team performed better in the second half compared to the first. He emphasized the importance of mental focus, especially when dealing with fatigue and heat. Baroni believes the team showed strong mental resilience and is optimistic that they will continue to improve in all aspects. He is confident that with a week of preparation, the team will be ready for the next challenge. 

"Romagnoli mentioned that we needed to improve in the second half compared to the first. We put in a lot of hard work, and I pushed them to stay mentally sharp. With the fatigue and heat, mental strength becomes crucial, and the team showed that. We’ll continue to grow in all areas. I'm very confident—we need to give it our all. With a full week to prepare, I’m sure we’ll be ready."