Lazio manager Marco Baroni expressed optimism and determination in his pre-match press conference ahead of the UEFA Europa League clash against Porto. The Italian side, currently leading their group with three wins from three matches, is set to host the Portuguese giants at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday, November 7th.
Baroni emphasized the importance of the match, stating, “We’ll field the team that’s in the best condition. This is an important, difficult, and beautiful match. Porto is a high-level opponent. We must face them with a top-level performance.”
The Lazio coach highlighted the value of such challenging fixtures: “We need this game. Against important opponents. These are the challenges that make us grow. We are aware that high-level performances are required where you can’t make any mistakes on the field.”
Addressing the team’s tactical flexibility, Baroni added, “Our team knows how to change its approach during the game. You can’t always build play or have possession: in these cases, attention must not be lacking. Tomorrow we face a team to which you must concede little space.”
On the possibility of rotating the squad, Baroni mentioned, “Our starting goalkeeper is Provedel. But when there are conditions, as I do with all others, I can give an opportunity. We all need to grow, especially in that role. This is an assessment I still have to make.”
The manager also praised the team’s adaptation to his philosophy: “We have outlined a guideline. I found extraordinary participation, the team has understood the proposal and is following it. We have to work hard to create a strong identity, high-level matches are needed.”
Nuno Tavares, who joined Baroni in the press conference, spoke about the team’s ambitions: “The goal we set ourselves is to go as far as possible in both Serie A and the Europa League. To be honest, I always look at the top of the table.”
