Lazio boss Stefano Pioli said all the pressure is on Roma. “They’re convinced they’ll win after spending so much.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“The derby means a lot, both for its importance and considering our current moment of form,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Lazio boss Stefano Pioli said all the pressure is on Roma. “They’re convinced they’ll win after spending so much.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“The derby means a lot, both for its importance and considering our current moment of form,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“We have quality and are trying to let that show. We haven’t been able to so far due to a lack of consistency. I try to reinforce the things that are going well and work on those that aren’t.
“I believe in these lads. It has been a tricky week, but I feel everything happens for a reason and the Europa League journey to Rosenborg ultimately did us good. We have the right mixture of concentration and desire to win.
“Have I already chosen my line-up? You expect too much! I am making my evaluations now, the important thing is to have many options to choose from.
“This is a delicate and important match, but we had these moments last season too and it can be the turning point for Lazio.
“I believe Roma are a strong side, we all know that and so do they, especially as they spent so much money to win something. We want to win too.
“Roma, considering their investment, have the duty to win. They are convinced that they will win, but we’ll see what happens.
“I believe what happens on the pitch is all that matters and you must go there with determination, concentration and intensity, all the things I want to see from my squad tomorrow.
“We know Roma’s characteristics, their danger running into space and on the counter, but we have our own characteristics to make the most of and must press them all over the field.
“In a derby situation, it’s important to stay in the game with your minds for the full 95 minutes. Matches are always decided by incidents and the derby even more so, as every ball could be decisive.
“The past no longer matters now.”
Both sets of ultras have announced a boycott of the game in protest at the new barriers dividing the sections of the Curva Sud and Nord in the Stadio Olimpico.
“It’s a shame for all concerned and I don’t think anyone is happy about this situation, but I don’t think it’ll make a difference to the teams. We feel the importance of the game anyway.
“The derby does deserve a different atmosphere and hopefully the situation can be resolved so we get the real fans in the stadium.”