Maurizio Sarri sees ‘progress’ in Lazio’s 2-1 defeat to FC Porto and feels they deserved to equalise, so the Europa League play-off remains wide open.
The Aquile had taken the lead at the Estadio Do Dragao through a cheeky Mattia Zaccagni flick at the near post on a well-worked corner.
However, surprise starter Toni Martinez was also the hero for the hosts, scoring with a bullet header and volley to turn it around for the 2-1 result.
“It was a good game against a tough opponent. We are disappointed the first half ended in a stalemate, because we had the chances to easily lead at the break,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia.
Europa League | FC Porto 2-1 Lazio: Toni Martinez cancels out Zaccagni
“The only concern was the approach to the second half, as Porto started very strong after the break. We were shaky for a few minutes, but then got it back in hand and went close to equalising with Felipe Anderson.
“We created as many clear-cut chances as Porto did, so it’s disappointing we were unable to get the draw. The only problem was our approach to the start of the second half, but I saw progress tonight. This was a game we would’ve really struggled in a few months ago.”
Away goals no longer count double on aggregate in Europe, but it remains an open tie for a place in the Europa League Round of 16 with the second leg at the Stadio Olimpico.
“We need a goal to get on level terms, because with the new rules, this result is not as good as it would’ve been. Porto are a very technical side, we will be in trouble if we leave them space.”
It was particularly tricky considering Ciro Immobile was left behind in Rome with a high fever, so Felipe Anderson and Pedro had to take turns as the False 9.
“Clearly, they have certain characteristics and cannot be Immobile, but they created the chances to score more goals.
“We’ll see if Immobile recovers for Udinese, I’ll speak to the doctor and we’ll see how he is doing.”