Baroni: "We’re Disappointed By The Result And Understand The Frustration. However, We Can Build On The Second-Half Performance Where We Played More Like Lazio."

After Lazio’s derby loss to Roma, coach Marco Baroni addressed the press from the Stadio Olimpico. Here’s what he had to say:

How do you explain today’s approach?
"We struggled, especially conceding two early goals. We lacked rhythm and penetration on the flanks, which we only found in the second half. It’s disappointing for our fans because we wanted a better outcome. However, we can build on the second-half performance where we played more like Lazio. In the first half, we didn’t spread the play effectively and missed a lot. Recent injuries have also disrupted us, and we need to recover those players quickly."

Does the mental aspect concern you?
"I’m not overly worried, as each of the last three games has been different. Today, the pressure affected some players more than others. What’s important is replicating what we did in the second half. It’s frustrating not to score, and we deeply regret letting our fans down."

What’s your plan moving forward?
"We’re developing Dele-Bashiru; he’s more effective starting deeper. He has a unique style compared to Pedro and Dia, who excel at receiving between the lines. However, today’s issues weren’t about individuals but rather our lack of rhythm. Our system thrives on rhythm and creativity in those spaces."

What about conceding too many goals?
"We’re disappointed by the result and understand the frustration. But we mustn’t lose our identity. In the second half, the numbers show we created opportunities, but the result didn’t reflect that. We need to maintain our rhythm and utilize the wings effectively—something we lacked in the first half, making us too predictable."

How is Pedro?
"It’s too soon to determine his recovery. I also had to push Noslin, who wasn’t fully fit, though Lazzari was fine."

Did the crowd event at Formello backfire?

"No, these games are crucial for growth. One match doesn’t erase our progress. We’ll continue working with focus. The second-half performance showed rhythm and quality, but being two goals down made it harder. Despite the result, this doesn’t negate our journey so far."