Stefano Pioli admits the Lazio–Juventus Coppa Italia Final is “the most important game of my career and I’m enjoying it.”
The Aquile face Scudetto winners Juve at the Stadio Olimpico tomorrow evening.
“This is a one-off Final, so we mustn’t even consider the two Serie A defeats against Juventus this season,” said the Coach in a Press conference.
Stefano Pioli admits the Lazio-Juventus Coppa Italia Final is “the most important game of my career and I’m enjoying it.”
The Aquile face Scudetto winners Juve at the Stadio Olimpico tomorrow evening.
“This is a one-off Final, so we mustn’t even consider the two Serie A defeats against Juventus this season,” said the Coach in a Press conference.
“We must play like Lazio, which means being focused, determined and proving we’ve learned our lessons from previous games. We know that we cannot afford certain mistakes again. We want to win the Final.
“Is this the most important match of my management career? Certainly. It’s my first Final and I am enjoying it. You might not believe me, but I’m enjoying this Press conference too!
“I experience all this with the satisfaction and pride of working with a group of special lads. We want to enjoy every instant all the way to lifting the Coppa Italia.
“I still remember where we started this journey, playing Bassano del Grappa in the first round. A new day and a new game represent a new opportunity. This is a big opportunity.”
The Biancocelesti have been the breakout side of the campaign, challenging for second place and reaching the Coppa Italia Final. Did Pioli expect this when he took over 10 months ago?
“I hoped so from the very start, since the moment I met my players. We had to wait for six or seven to come back from the World Cup, but the potential in the squad was evident.
“We worked in order to reach these objectives, to be in the Coppa Italia Final and challenge for Champions League qualification. It’s gratifying that we are here and we want to push all the way.
“It’s safe to say Lazio performed above and beyond expectations, but the season isn’t over yet. There are still three games that will decide our future.”
Pioli confirmed Etrit Berisha will remain as the Coppa Italia goalkeeper in the Final too, but the big surprise is that Lucas Biglia was in training despite fears his season was over.
“It’s good news, though I don’t know if he’ll be able to play tomorrow. In the morning we’ll have a final training session.
“I have already chosen my starting XI, but will only tell the team tomorrow. We must play to the top of our abilities to beat Juventus and we are capable of it. We are prepared.”
Massimiliano Allegri confirmed that he spoke to Lazio over the summer, but President Claudio Lotito opted for Pioli instead.
“Allegri’s work is clear for all to see. He had the strength to bring his ideas with intelligence and the right timing. I compliment him.”