Despite their penalty shootout defeat to Bodo/Glimt on Thursday, Lazio boss Marco Baroni has insisted he is still proud of his players.
The Biancocelesti lost the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final 2-0 in Norway last week. However, goals from Taty Castellanos and a 93rd minute Tijjani Noslin strike ensured the game went to extra time.
Boulaye Dia put the Serie A side 3-0 up on the night and ahead for the first time in the tie. That joy was short lived as Andreas Helmersen scored for the Norwegians to level the aggregate score at 3-3.
The dreaded shootout ensued with scorers Noslin and Castellanos amongst those who missed. The Eliteserien side went on to win 3-2 to progress to the semi-final against Tottenham.
Marco Baroni On Lazio’s Europa League Exit
“I don’t know what more I could ask of the players,” Marco Baroni explained after the heartbreaking defeat at the Stadio Olimpico.
“There is pain, because we deserved to go through, because the team played an extraordinary match in a marvellous stadium with remarkable energy.
“We played well, created chances, were aggressive, pressed high, stopped Bodo/Glimt playing and had so many scoring opportunities.
“I am sad at the way it ended, but I am proud of the team, I thank the fans and can only congratulate everyone, including those who took the penalties.”
When the match went to penalties, a few eyebrows were raised owing to Baroni’s selections. Especially with Taty Castellanos who was visibly exhausted.
The Argentine is still not 100% match fit but he lasted two hours on Thursday. Ultimately, it was his miss that saw Bodo/Glimt progress to the last four.
“Clearly, when you get to penalties, there are many factors to be considered. Including players who feel ready to step up.
“Most of those who took them were strikers, but we don’t want to put any blame on them. They are young players. Castellanos is our regular penalty taker and he said he felt ready,” explained Baroni.
