Baroni: "We Passed The Test. Kudos To The Boys! It Was A Tough Match Against A Difficult Opponent Who Rarely Concedes, And Many Teams Struggle Against Them."

After Lazio's win over Empoli, sealed by Pedro's goal following Zaccagni’s equalizer, coach Marco Baroni addressed the media. He expressed pride in his team, stating, "We passed the test. Kudos to the boys! It was a tough match against a difficult opponent who rarely concedes, and many teams struggle against them. The team played a great game. We went behind because of a slip on the pitch by Provedel, but we gave everything, even missing a penalty. We played with heart and determination. This stadium is amazing, and the team must play for the fans, transferring that passion like we did today. Since Florence, we’ve been building games while maintaining our identity and performance."

When asked if Lazio can raise their ambitions, Baroni responded, "We can raise our work level, and with it, our ambitions. We have the best job in the world, so there’s no reason a player shouldn't give their all on the field. We won't win every time, but the attitude is right."

Regarding Isaksen's performance, he said, "Isaksen played well but missed the decisive play, which Pedro delivered. Like Noslin, Tchaouna, and Dele-Bashiru, Isaksen will become very strong. I'll give them opportunities; they may make mistakes, but they will improve."

On the subject of penalty takers, Baroni commented, "I always have a list, but penalties depend on the moment. I appreciate the team's unselfishness, like when Dia scored in Turin. Taty took a good penalty today, and he will certainly take another."

When asked about D'Aversa's remarks on provocations, Baroni remarked, "I worked with Roberto for a year in Lanciano. I understand their frustration because their analysis wasn't clear. Lazio was the team that wanted to win today. Starting tomorrow, they'll see things differently."

Baroni also noted the team’s attacking mindset, stating, "We had many forwards, lots of shots, and 28 crosses. Going back to the locker room helped us calm down after some provocations. In the second half, we played our game more effectively."

On Rovella's development, Baroni praised him, saying, "I respect Spalletti; he knows how to pick the best players. Rovella plays his role well, combining technique, mobility, and quality. I like the mobility of our midfielders and the aggression of our full-backs, even though it sometimes brings risks. I don’t like passive play."

He also touched on their right-sided attack, explaining, "Nuno wasn’t fully fit due to the flu and was cautious in the first half, but improved in the second. Gyasi marked him well."

Regarding injured players, Baroni said, "Manuel needs further tests, but I hope to have him back for the Juventus match. Vecino’s issue is very minor."